Application of a predictive acoustical software for modelling low speed train noise in an urban environment

In this work the noise impact of train transits, in the framework of low velocity regimes, is considered, especially in proximity of a railway station. The environmental impact observed in the neighbourhood of the station is highlighted, considering the Sound Pressure Level of noise coming from train transits and the equivalent Level evaluated during the full day operating time of the railway. In particular we performed a comparison between the experimental results obtained from noise measurements detected on a building facade close to a railway station at night time, and the algorithmic simulations obtained by means of a predictive software. Regarding the simulation activity, train transits and the related auxiliary noise sources have been realistically modelled by considering different types of trains and of running conditions, making the simulation run on a 24 hours time interval. A relevant aspect of this study is the representation of the results. Different plots are presented, with particular emphasis to contour plot maps.