Acoustic Characteristics of Aerodynamic Pantograph Noise Generated from Shinkansen Train

Abstract

Aerodynamic noise generated from a pantographs of Shinkansen trains is one of the major noise sources when they run at high speed. From the viewpoint of environmental conservation, it is important to estimate its sound pressure level. Recent Shinkansen trains are equipped with noise insulating panels on both sides of the pantograph to reduce the noise propagating to the wayside and its noise reduction effect highly depends on the lateral prospects from the pantograph to the measurement point. In the present study, aerodynamic noise generated from a pantograph with noise insulating panels was measured at the different elevation angle by the wind tunnel test. The result was validated using that of a field test in which aerodynamic noise was measured at positions by the side of or obliquely below the pantograph. Furthermore, the characteristics of the noise generated from the components of the pantograph at different heights were investigated at elevation angles ranging from 0 deg. to 30 deg..