Modelling rail track electrical behaviour using two-dimensional finite elements

Abstract

Methodology for the calculation of electromagnetic fields around the track in electric railroad traction systems using the finite element method is described. A two-dimensional model, exploiting longitudinal track symmetry, is exploited to obtain information about the surrounding potentials and fields. The stored and dissipated energies in the fields for common and differential mode track excitation are then used to calculate the transmission line equivalent circuit parameters.