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Jun 01, 2023

CAF MiiRA and Euskotren test wheel soundproofing system

To address the problem of train noise and its impact on communities, CAF MiiRA and Euskotren, the Basque transportation operator, are testing new wheel soundproofing systems on Euskotren’s train

To address the problem of train noise and its impact on communities, CAF MiiRA and Euskotren, the Basque transportation operator, are testing new wheel soundproofing systems on Euskotren’s train fleet. The primary objective is to significantly reduce the noise generated by train wheels, thus enhancing the quality of life for residents living near the tracks.

The collaboration between Euskotren and CAF MiiRA demonstrates both the companies’ desire to enhance railway transportation in the Basque Country through innovation and continuous improvement. Both hope to improve the passenger travel experience and reduce the railway’s environmental impact.

Julio Galipienzo, R&D Manager at CAF MiiRA stated, “This strategic collaboration with Euskotren provides us with an opportunity to combine our capabilities and knowledge to develop advanced solutions that improve the passenger travel experience and reduce environmental impact.” Pilar Rosado, Rolling Stock Manager at Euskotren stated that: “We will work hand in hand to develop and implement innovative systems that reduce acoustic impact and enhance the overall performance of our trains, benefiting passengers and the environment.”

According to the European Environment Agency, approximately 18 million people within the European Union are grappling with long-term high annoyance caused by transport noise. To address this pressing issue, the Zero Pollution Action Plan was introduced, aiming to achieve a 30 per cent reduction in the number of people chronically disturbed by transport noise by 2030, compared to the figures from 2017.

Promising case studies presented in the briefing exemplify effective measures that could contribute to reaching the 2030 target. These measures include reducing traffic speed limits, redesigning roadways, establishing low-noise emission zones, and retrofitting trains with quieter brakes and pads. By emulating these best practices, the EU can take substantial steps towards curbing the detrimental impact of transport noise on its citizens’ well-being.

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