Numerical studies of ballastless track-embankment vibrations considering track irregularities

High-speed railway systems require precise modeling of track-embankment dynamics to ensure structural stability and safety, particularly under nonlinear excitation from high-speed trains. Existing models struggle to capture the complex interactions between trains and track infrastructure. To address this, a three-dimensional finite element (3D FE) model was developed using ABAQUS to simulate the dynamic responses of track-embankment coupling systems, based on the Wuhan-Guangzhou high-speed railway and validated with field measurements. The proposed model innovatively incorporated the geometric complexities of railhead and wheel tread surfaces, as well as multiple track irregularities, ensuring realistic simulations. An empirical filtering rule was introduced to address high-frequency numerical noise, enhancing data processing accuracy for future studies. The model was used to examine the effects of train speed and track irregularities on the vertical and lateral vibrations of the system. Results show that vibration intensity rises as train speed increases, with vertical rail vibrations 1.9 to 2.9 times stronger than lateral vibrations. Track irregularities amplify embankment vibrations, particularly at higher frequencies and shallow depths, while soil damping reduces this effect at greater depths. These findings provide valuable insights into the dynamic behaviour of ballastless track-embankment systems and have practical implications for the design and maintenance of high-speed railway infrastructure