The characteristics of air wave induced by two high-speed trains passing by each other in a tunnel

Abstract

A three-dimensional computational model of two CRH2 trains passing by each other in a tunnel was developed using finite volume method with moving mesh, to investigate the characteristics of air wave and flow field around high-speed trains. Two meeting scenarios (i.e. meeting at the same train speeds and at different train speeds) and five train speeds (i.e. 200, 250, 300, 350, and 400 km/h) were examined. The computational model is demonstrated to be qualified to investigate the characteristics of air wave for two trains meeting in a tunnel. The pressure distribution and velocity vectors of two trains meeting in a tunnel were revealed, and the typical features of the corresponding air wave curve were discussed. Furthermore, the variation regularity of pressure amplitudes and the relationship between pressure wave amplitude and train speed were also analyzed. The results indicate that two trains with a large speed difference should be avoided when they pass by each other in a tunnel. These findings are helpful to guide the design of trains and tunnel structures and the dispatching management of rail transit.