Development of practical approaches to predicting flow-induced sound from termination devices in large-scale railway tunnel ventilation systems

Michael J. B., Lotinga,; Gennaro, Sica,

Abstract

Railway tunnel ventilation systems present particular problems for predictions of sound emissions, including the relatively high volumetric flow rates, and a lack of well-established models and empirical data. An investigation was undertaken to support the acoustical design of tunnel ventilation systems on the UK High Speed Two (HS2) project, in view of the project environmental commitments and noise constraints. This was aimed at developing practical prediction models for the flow-induced sound generated by two types of termination device: (i) mesh grilles, and (ii) air curtains. Existing literature was reviewed to identify potential prediction models or approaches. The information obtained from the review was used to develop practical models, validated using available empirical data, including over a relatively wide range of flow velocities. It is hoped that the learning legacy of this work includes an understanding of some key aspects of the acoustics involved in flow-generated sound from ducted ventilation system termination devices for railway and industrial applications, together with relatively simple and practical approaches to predicting their sound emissions.

• Report Type: Research Report
• Publication Date: 2024
• Deposit Date: Jul 4, 2025