Effect of train speed on the aerodynamic characteristics of a maglev train passing through a tunnel under crosswind conditions

Abstract

This study investigates the aerodynamic behavior of a high-speed maglev train during tunnel entry and exit under a constant crosswind of 33.7 m/s, with operating speeds ranging from 450 km/h to 600 km/h. A key innovation of this study lies in the integrated CFD model that simultaneously simulates both the tunnel and the train within a unified computational domain, allowing detailed analysis of pressure, velocity, and vortex dynamics during transitional phases. The model was validated against experimental data from a moving model rig, demonstrating strong agreement between numerical and measured results. While prior studies have focused on conventional wheel-rail systems, limited research exists on maglev trains, which are particularly sensitive to lateral aerodynamic forces due to their narrow levitation gap and electromagnetic suspension. The results show that when train speed is 600 km/h, the maximum lift force coefficient reached 0.6368 at the tail car during tunnel entry, while the middle car exhibited a peak side force coefficient of 0.3903 at tunnel exit. These findings provide important insights into the aerodynamic risks faced by future ultra-high-speed maglev systems and underscore the need for aerodynamic optimization under extreme environmental conditions.

Keywords

high-speed maglev trains / crosswind effects / aerodynamic forces / pressure analysis / vorticity dynamics

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