Vibration Reduction in Ballasted Track Using Ballast Mat: Numerical and Experimental Evaluation by Wheelset Drop Test

Ballast mats are considered as an effective solution for reducing vehicle-induced vibrations. However, the research on vibration characteristics of each part ballasted track with a ballast mat is limited. In this study, reduction effects evaluated by numerical and experimental analysis using wheelset drop tests. A three-dimensional model consisting wheel, contact between them built rigid–flexible coupling method. The accuracy verified comparison finite element in terms receptance phase angle. Comparisons show that proposed good agreement model, which allows validating flexible-body model. Moreover, dynamic performance presence absence studied tests both time frequency domains. results from excitation use decreases mid- high-frequency 13–17 dB but increases low-frequency 5–15 dB.