David Soper

This outstanding thesis characterises the aerodynamic flow around a container freight train; investigating how changing container loading configurations affect the magnitude of aerodynamic forces measured on a container. 1/25th scale moving-model freight train experiments were carried out at the University of Birmingham’s TRAIN rig facility to investigate slipstream velocities and static pressure, as well as measuring, using a specifically designed on-board pressure monitoring system, the aerodynamic loads on containers. Results were compared with full scale data and assessed in terms European standards for trackside worker and passenger safety limits. Rail vehicle aerodynamic studies have tended to previously focus on high speed passenger trains in line with increases in train speed. The research presented within this thesis highlights the issues associated with the aerodynamic development around a freight train, providing the foundations for further research and a basis from which to develop international safety standards in relation to freight, as well as high speed trains.

The Aerodynamics of a Container Freight Train

Chris Baker

Terry Johnson

Dominic Flynn

Hassan Hemida

Andrew Quinn

Mark Sterling

Train Aerodynamics: Fundamentals and Applications is the first reference to provide a comprehensive overview of train aerodynamics with full scale data results. With the most up-to-date information on recent advances and the possibilities of improvement in railway facilities, this book will benefit railway engineers, train operators, train manufacturers, infrastructure managers and researchers of train aerodynamics. As the subject of train aerodynamics has evolved slowly over the last few decades with train speeds gradually increasing, and as a result of increasing interest in new train types and high-speed lines, this book provides a timely resource on the topic. Examines the fundamentals and the state-of-the-art of train aerodynamics, beginning with experimental, numerical and analytical tools, and then thoroughly discussing the specific approaches in other sections Features the latest developments and progress in computational aerodynamics and experimental facilities Addresses problems relating to train aerodynamics, from the dimensioning of railway structures and trains, to risk analysis related to safety issues and maintenance Discusses basic flow patterns caused by bridges and embankments

Fundamentals and Applications

Train Aerodynamics

David Soper

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