New research shows that curve squeal in railway traffic is far from random

In a year-long measurement study at a problematic railway curve in Södertälje, researchers from Luleå University of Technology, in collaboration with Trafikverket, have identified clear patterns in when curve squeal occurs.

The results show that inner- and outer-rail squeal follow different trends and are strongly influenced by weather conditions such as humidity, temperature and season.

The study was carried out by our PhD student Leevi Toratti together with his supervisor, Matti Rantatalo, within the EU-RAIL Flagship project Rail4EARTH. By combining continuous sound and vibration measurements with weather data, the research demonstrates a real potential to predict curve squeal and use that knowledge to target mitigation measures more effectively.

A strong example of how data-driven research can support quieter, healthier and more sustainable railway systems.

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