Field measurement of track vibration induced by full-load and empty-load condition in curve section of underground metro line

In order to compare the differences in vibration before and after wheel re-profiling and assess the vibration impact of train under full-load and empty-load condition, the field vibration measurement was conducted on an underground metro track components (including rail, sleeper, and track-bed) by using a specific testing car. The results indicate that wheel re-profiling is effective in reducing track vibration, within the frequency range of 31.5–1250 Hz, the vibration acceleration levels of the track after wheel re-profiling were notably lower than those prior to re-profiling and the vibration acceleration levels of the rail, sleeper, and track-bed decrease by 4.7 dB, 6.6 dB, and 6.7 dB, respectively. In the frequency domain, the characteristic peak frequencies of the three track components, whether under full load or empty load, align closely with the frequencies associated with track irregularities. Full-load condition primarily affects the vibration acceleration at lower frequencies, with minor influence on higher frequencies. The vibration acceleration levels of all three track components are higher under full load than empty load. Additionally, under full-load condition, the transmission loss from the rail to the sleeper increases, while the transmission loss from the sleeper to the ballast remains nearly constant. The results of vibration acceleration levels obtained from routine vehicle operations validate the limited impact of axle load on track components vibration.