Quasi-static modelling of wheel-rail reactions due to crosswind effects for various types of high-speed rolling stock

Abstract

This work describes a quasi-static tool developed to assess the performance swiftly of crosswind stability for three types of rolling stock with conventional, semi-trailer and Jacobs bogie running gear configurations. The prediction accuracy of the results returned by the tool for the quasistatic assumption is fair in comparison with results of more advanced multibody simulation software that is commercially available. The codes, which are based on steady equilibrium equations for the wheels and axles, bogie frames and vehicle body/bodies, handle arbitrarily canted embankments and circular curves. To a large extent the accuracy hinges on the bodies' lateral displacements relative to the contact points between the wheels and rails; therefore proper modelling of the suspension systems and bump stops are found to be important. Examples are given of the limitations associated with the quasi-static approach, studying the following: (a) the combined wind and track scenario in Deutsche Bahn AG's guideline, (b) the effects of typical track irregularities for high-speed transportation as a function of train speed and (c) the effects of oscillating crosswind. It has also been found relevant to demonstrate some of the large differences regarding provisions regulating crosswind safety. To this extent the present results are compared with those derived with the British Group Standard and also with results presented in the guideline of Deutsche Bahn AG. In addition, examples are given of the differences found of the permissible crosswind speed using calculated (with CFD-RANS) and experimentally obtained aerodynamic loads.

Keywords

aerodynamics vehicle dynamics safety wind tunnel experiments computational fluid dynamics (CFD)

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