Measurement and interpretation of vibrations produced by the traffic in Bogota D.C.

Abstract

Due to the development of Bogota (main city of Colombia) and to its increase of population, transport systems have been constructed in the last decade. Although these systems increase the well-being of the citizens, the traffic could generate vibrations problems. These vibrations could affect the people and the constructions near to highways. These effects can be important for high levels of vibrations. These vibrations, depend, among others aspects, of the mechanical characteristics of the soils. Considering the future plans of construction of transportation systems in Bogota, vibrations due to traffic and railroad in 6 sites of Bogota were registered. In this places were indentified typical soils of the seismic microzoning of Bogota. Measurements were made to register the vibrations due to the train of the savannah, Transmilenio (articulated buses) and public transport mainly. With this information curves of attenuation of acceleration and speed were determined. The actual vibrations levels are perceived by the people but they do not cause problems to the buildings. However, these vibration levels are the datum point of future measurements when increase the traffic, the weight and the speed of the vehicles.