2D and 3D numerical and experimental analyses ofthe aerodynamic effects of air fences on a high-speed train

Abstract

This perusal surveys the design criteria indispensable for fences that are installed alongside the high-speed railway tracks to protect the passing high-speed rolling stock under strong side winds. Using a numerical code based on Lattice Boltzmann Method (LBM) it is attempted to initially investigate the airflow behavior behind the fences. A variety of geometries for air fences in a two-dimensional space are compared. A wind tunnel test is performed to verify the numerical results. The three-dimensional flow patterns around the German Intercity Express (ICE3) high-speed train with and without the air fences are numerically examined to be more realistic. It is found that the presence of the fences has a significant impact on decreasing the intensity of the airflow above the train. The edges on the top of the fences cause more reduction in the velocity of air flowing above the train.