London Underground

Sleeper pads for efficient vibration protection

The track of the London Underground District Line was completely renovated between the stations Paddington and High Street Kensington in the city centre. Around 208 million passengers use this line every year.

Between July and August 2011, this very busy section of track, which is also part of the Circle Line, was upgraded with new ballast, rails and brand new sleepers with pads supplied by Getzner.

The challenges

Track renovation for London Underground
Very busy railway line
Vibrations caused by the underground trains (residential areas)
Very narrow tunnels
Sleeper pads for concrete and timber sleepers

The solution

Providing elastic bearings for this stretch of the District Line was the first major sleeper pad project for London Underground: the vibration protection requirements called for the use of full-surface Sylodyn® sleeper pads, which are ideal for effectively minimising vibrations. Deliveries were made both to the CEMEX sleeper works and directly to London Underground.

«A significant reduction in groundborne vibration has been achieved in a number of neighbouring properties. Some long-term residents living next to the track have even written and thanked us for providing them with greater peace and quiet. Additionally the sleeper pads supplied by Getzner required no changes to the installation programme, methodology or equipment for the track renewal. Overall, the use of Getzner sleeper pads on this project has been a great success», stated Mike Barlow, Principal Project Engineer from London Underground.

Advantages for the customer

Significant reduction in groundborne vibrations
No changes to the installation programme for London Underground
The decrease in vibrations noticeably improved the quality of life of residents living next to the track

„We have already worked together with Getzner on a number of projects – both for Network Rail and for London Underground. Getzner supported us with excellent customer service and was also present on-site during installation, when required. We look forward to continuing our working relationship in future projects – to the ultimate benefit of our customers.“

Andrew Carey, Sales Manager of the sleeper manufacturer CEMEX Rail Products