Numerical simulation of aerodynamic performance of a couple multiple units high-speed train

• Published in: Vehicle system dynamics 2017-05, Vol.55 (5), p.681-703
• Main Authors: Niu, Ji-qiang, Zhou, Dan, Liu, Tang-hong, Liang, Xi-feng
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Aerodynamic coefficients; Aerodynamic forces; aerodynamic performance; Aerodynamics; Computer simulation; couple multiple units; Couples; Coupling; crosswind; Crosswinds; Drag; High speed; High-speed train; Numerical analysis; passing each other; Railroad cars; Railroad engineering; Stress concentration; tunnel; Tunnels (transportation); Variation
• ISSN: 0042-3114; 1744-5159
• DOI: 10.1080/00423114.2016.1277769

In order to determine the effect of the coupling region on train aerodynamic performance, and how the coupling region affects aerodynamic performance of the couple multiple units trains when they both run and pass each other in open air, the entrance of two such trains into a tunnel and their passing each other in the tunnel was simulated in Fluent 14.0. The numerical algorithm employed in this study was verified by the data of scaled and full-scale train tests, and the difference lies within an acceptable range. The results demonstrate that the distribution of aerodynamic forces on the train cars is altered by the coupling region; however, the coupling region has marginal effect on the drag and lateral force on the whole train under crosswind, and the lateral force on the train cars is more sensitive to couple multiple units compared to the other two force coefficients. It is also determined that the component of the coupling region increases the fluctuation of aerodynamic coefficients for each train car under crosswind. Affected by the coupling region, a positive pressure pulse was introduced in the alternating pressure produced by trains passing by each other in the open air, and the amplitude of the alternating pressure was decreased by the coupling region. The amplitude of the alternating pressure on the train or on the tunnel was significantly decreased by the coupling region of the train. This phenomenon did not alter the distribution law of pressure on the train and tunnel; moreover, the effect of the coupling region on trains passing by each other in the tunnel is stronger than that on a single train passing through the tunnel.