Lightning Test and Simulation Research for Medium-speed Maglev Train

Abstract

Objective When medium-speed maglev trains operate on elevated tracks, the carbody is susceptible to lightning strikes. If composite materials are adopted for medium-speed maglev train carbody, damage or even penetration can happen during a lightning strike, further posing lightning-related harm to passengers. For this situation, it is necessary to incorporate lightning protection design into the design of composite material train carbody, with the key focus on the attachment points of lightning on the train. Method A precise scaled model of a single compartment for the medium-speed maglev train is created, and the test basis, test specimens, test methods, and test results of the lightning attachment point test on maglev train are elaborated. Using COMSOL Multiphysics finite element numerical simulation software, the region of lightning attachment points on the medium-speed maglev train is divided into six parts: front windshield, carbody top, side edge, tip of side edge, equipment installation area, and ground. Lightning simulation calculations are carried out on the entire train. Result & Conclusion Detailed information on the distribution of single compartment lightning attachment points is obtained through lightning tests on the scaled train model. The electric field distribution on train surface is obtained through lightning simulation, and the simulation results are in good agreement with the test results. Combining the test and simulation results, a lightning protection design scheme for medium-speed maglev trains is proposed.

Keywords

• medium-speed maglev train
• lightning test
• scaled model simulation
• lightning attachment point