Prediction of CO2 Concentration in Korea Train Express (KTX) Cabins

Abstract

The forced ventilation in high-speed trains makes air quality control in railway cabins of importance. Ventilation is used for controlling various contaminants, along with the temperature and the humidity, keeping them at comfortable levels for passengers. Express trains travel to their destinations at high speeds, and given Korea's mountainous terrain, must go through many tunnels along the way. Korea's tunnel rate is in fact much higher than other countries. Because the HVAC system blocks off outdoor air when entering a tunnel, a high tunnel rate has a negative impact on railway cabin ventilation. To meet the air quality standards for public transportations, CO 2 concentration in high speed railway cabins should be strictly managed. In this study, changes in CO 2 concentration in railway cabins were predicted through a simulation on a route that has not yet in service.