Vibration control and noise reduction for railways
Rail transportation, a fundamental pillar of modern transit, offers an efficient mode of travel with lesser environmental impact compared to road and air transport. Rail transit is seeing an even bigger surge today with new highspeed rail as well as urban metro and light rail projects emerging, resulting in a rapid development of track infrastructure. However, the inherent rail noise and vibration associated with rail operations pose challenges to passenger comfort, safety, and the well-being of nearby communities.
Addressing this persistent issue, various solutions have been developed to reduce noise levels for inside rail cars as well as noise pollution near railways, both playing a crucial role in enhancing the overall travel experience.
Common noise reduction solutions include noise barriers and sound absorbers installed along busy infrastructure segments. Pyrotek, a leading manufacturer in this field, goes beyond conventional approaches with its innovative product, Decidamp RTD - a tuned mass rail damper designed to treat the noise problem at its source.
Decidamp RTD (mass loaded rail track damper)
Decidamp RTD
Specifically engineered for use directly on rail tracks, Decidamp RTD provides an effective way of reducing rail vibration, and consequently airborne noise, produced by passing trains. This not only improves passenger and driver comfort within the train but also addresses noise pollution from railways affecting nearby areas. The introduction of Pyrotek's rail track damper represents a strategic response to these concerns.
Designed for best performance and easy installation
Functioning as a specialized device mounted onto rail track profiles, the Pyrotek rail anti-vibration solution, Decidamp RTD, minimizes the impact of dynamic forces from train wheels on the track. By absorbing and dissipating the energy, it reduces structural vibrations, providing passengers with a smoother and more enjoyable travel experience without compromising safety and health. Discomfort is only one negative effect of rail vibrations on passengers. Prolonged exposure can also result in health issues such as headaches, stress, sleep disturbances for both passengers and residents near rail lines. Humans, however, are not the only ones negatively affected by rail vibrations. These can also disturb the natural environment and wildlife near railroads, they can accelerate the wear and tear or even structurally damage nearby infrastructure such as buildings, roads and bridges. Reducing rail metal fatigue and corrugation growth with the use of Decidamp RTD results in extended lifespan of train cars and the track itself, without the need for frequent maintenance, improving cost efficiency at the same time. Protecting the well-being of nearby communities from rail vibrations adds further value.
Using our internal research and development team, together with leading acoustic engineers, extensive product development was performed to create the final solution. On-site field testing ensures dampers are optimised to deliver maximum effectiveness on any track configuration. Decidamp RTD can be easily fitted to existing and new rail track as a method of complying with noise legislation and environmental planning regulations. The dampers are easily attached to either side of the rail using specially designed brackets.
Complete Solutions
Pyrotek's rail dampers can be integrated into a comprehensive noise control for railways package, alongside non-combustible noise absorbers like Reapor and Viterolite. Together, these products create a complete solution for challenging rail environments, including tunnels, bridges, bypasses and other noise affected areas.
The integration of rail track dampers represents a pivotal strategy in reducing rail noise and vibration, aligning with the industry's commitment to passenger comfort, safety, and environmental responsibility. As technology advances, Pyrotek continues its ongoing efforts to refine and optimize rail anti-vibration solutions, contributing to the development of a sustainable, safe, and harmonious rail infrastructure.
About Us
Pyrotek is a global manufacturer and supplier or innovative acoustic and thermal solutions to a variety of industry segments, including the rail sector. Pyrotek has provided acoustic solutions to major infrastructure projects globally including the Sydney and Melbourne Metro Tunnels. For a more comprehensive overview of Pyrotek noise mitigating solutions, visit the Transport Product Portfolio.
