Aerodynamics of railway train/tunnel system: A review of recent research

Abstract

The coupling and complexity of railway train / tunnel system are further aggravated by increasing train speed, which produces a series of aerodynamics problems, such as aerodynamic drag, slipstream, pressure wave and micro pressure wave. Aerodynamic effects of tunnels will result in a significant increase in train energy consumption, shorten life of railway train / tunnel system, and increase maintenance cost. This paper provides a review of aerodynamics of railway train / tunnel system. Challenges in railway train / tunnel system aerodynamics and their related factors are discussed firstly. Aerodynamic performance and flow field characteristics of trains in tunnels are presented. Relationship of aerodynamic effects and parameters of railway train / tunnel system, and the control methods for reducing aerodynamic effects in tunnels are explained. A traffic safety evaluation of the train in tunnels, such as vehicle body structure, passengers’ ear comfort, etc., is introduced and analysed. Finally, future outlooks and research topics are proposed.

Keywords

• High-speed trains
• Tunnel aerodynamics
• Compressible flow