High-speed train crosswind analysis: CFD study and validation with wind-tunnel tests

Abstract

The correct definition of the crosswind aerodynamic forces on a high speed train is important to judge the safety of the rolling stock. Different conditions in terms of scenario (DTBR, EMBK and presence of wind barriers) and in terms of train motion are compared in the paper considering the aerodynamic forces and moments that mostly contribute to the overturning risk of the train while it is running under crosswind. The results of CFD simulations are compared and validated with experimental wind tunnel tests. The numerical model allows to make a comparison between the aerodynamic forces computed on the train for different angles of incidence, simulating a still model and a moving train model. The still model reproduces what is tested in thewind tunnel, while themovingmodel simulates the real condition of a train running under crosswind. This work analyzes the aerodynamic behavior of a ETR-500 train under crosswind in different scenarios.