Investigating the Impact of Train Shape on the Aerodynamics Performance of Medium-Speed Trains

Abstract

A number of studies have discussed the advantages and disadvantages of aerodynamics in developing the body design of a train. The purpose of this paper is to examine the effect of the shape of tail and nose of the train on the aerodynamic performance (drag force, lift force, and noise) ofthe medium-speed train (120 -150 Km/hour). The literature study in this paperwas 3D CAD design, ergonomic environment comprehension, aerodynamics, and train body model. There were three types of models tested, namely the train models in Indonesia at hand, R-R model, and R-S model. Whereas, CAD software, Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD), and Computational Aero-acoustics (CAA) were used to answer the problems found in the study. Based on the results of the test, it is found that the available train models are not feasible for medium-speed trains with an average Cd value as much as 0.972, an average drag force by 6515.8 N, and an average lift force that is equal to 19401 N. The high value of lift force is dangerous for train stability. Therefore, it can be concluded that based on the results of the initial simulation, the train shapes developed at medium speed are the R-S model and the S-S model.