Assessing Train-Induced Building Vibrations in a Subway Transfer Station and Potential Control Strategies

Transit-oriented development (TOD) and over-track buildings have been rapidly expanding in Chinese subways since their development. This new method is highly convenient for people while the influence of indoor vibration and noise in buildings is not yet clear. A case study is conducted on over-track buildings on a subway transfer station in Chengdu, China. This paper first proposes a numerical prediction model based on a three-step approach to assess vibration impact. Then, a top-down comprehensive design of vibration mitigation based on the transmission path is developed to propose a practical control method. Furthermore, field measurements of vibrations on the ground and in nearby buildings are conducted. The results show that the over-track buildings are significantly affected by train operations, resulting in vertical vibrations with low frequencies ranging from 4 to 20 Hz. The vibration attenuation is different on different building floors, and the response frequency depends on the building’s natural frequency. The natural frequency of the main structures should differ from the main frequency of the vibration source to prevent high building vibration levels. Good comprehensive control strategies significantly reduce train-induced indoor secondary vibrations. Wider isolation trenches can significantly diminish the transfer of vibration transmission from the ground into the structure. These results can provide a guideline for developing transit-oriented buildings.