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Led by the NSW Government Department, Transport for NSW (TfNSW), the trial aims to monitor noise in the Beecroft corridor in North Sydney and identify ways in which rollingstock, the track and their interface contribute to the generation of wheel squeal.

A range of solutions are also being trialled including top of rail lubrication, gauge face lubrication and friction modification, with a permanent solution for the corridor expected to be implemented late this year.

ARTC have stated that noise is one of the most significant impacts to the local community living adjacent to the Beecroft corridor. This has been reflected in Aurizon’s angle of attack reporting, which is part of its compliance obligations to ARTC and concentrates on reducing the impacts of rollingstock towards wheal squeal.

Above: As part of the noise trial, Transport for NSW has installed modern electronic lubricators at several curve noise sites along Beecroft corridor in North Sydney. ​

Aurizon has a number of Intermodal Rail Operations services running between Brisbane and Melbourne that cross through the Beecroft community, so it is important to take up the opportunity to work in collaboration with the state government, the track owner and our customer to develop a solution.

The issue of wheel squeal is a complex, multifaceted problem that cannot be addressed in isolation to the whole system. Improvements in wheel squeal can be made, but their consequences and effects to operations beyond the extent of the curves must also be considered and balanced. Therefore, Aurizon will continue to engage with industry to progress these items as part of its long-term technology strategy.

Aurizon is also developing a Noise Management Plan, which will address the various legislative expectations in the jurisdictions where Aurizon operates.