Burak Ayva, Ali Sercan Kesten, Samuel Wong, Beau Daniel Weyers
Abstract – The acoustic design of metro stations is critical for regulatory compliance, passenger comfort, and safety. This paper presents an acoustic engineering case study of the IMES Station on Istanbul’s Sogutlucesme-Yenidogan Metro Line, demonstrating how Platform Screen Doors (PSDs) transformed the acoustic environment and treatment requirements. A detailed acoustic model of the platform level was created, and predictions were assessed in accordance with the Turkish Environmental Noise Regulation and TS 12127 standards, identifying a key deficiency: insufficient reverberation control threatened announcement clarity. A pivotal finding was the multi-functional role of the PSDs as a design solution. Primarily a safety feature, the PSD system additionally provided critical acoustic isolation, drastically reducing train noise transmission to the concourse and thereby lowering noise impact levels. This isolation effect also reduced the acoustic treatment burden elsewhere, allowing for more optimized and cost-effective material specifications. Simulations confirmed the success of the integrated strategy: reverberation times were reduced to compliant levels and Speech Transmission Index (STI) values stayed within acceptable levels, indicating acceptable intelligibility at a lower treatment cost, without the need to upgrade announcement system. This case study highlights how integrated design with features like full height PSDs can simplify the achievement of acoustic goals in metro stations.
To be presented in the INTER-NOISE 2026 conference in Adelaide, South Australia, from 9 to 12 August 2026: Home • INTER-NOISE 2026
