Research on Running Stability of CRH3 High Speed Trains Passing by Each Other

Two scenarios of trains passing by each other are usually encountered, which are trains passing by each other in the tunnel and passing by each other in the open air, respectively. The prototype of the CRH3 high speed train is considered in the present paper, with bogies, windshields, pantograph shrouds, air conditioner shrouds and other complex structures taking into consideration. Aerodynamic loads and multi-body system response of this prototype are discussed under the conditions of both scenarios. The variations of aerodynamic loads and the pressure on the surface of the trains are mainly analyzed, and then the formation mechanism of the variations is discussed. A comparative study of the differences in both scenarios is also performed. In addition, the dynamic response of the high speed train has been studied by loading the unsteady aerodynamic forces and torques. Furthermore, the derailment coefficient, the wheel unloading rate, the wheel/rail lateral force and the wheel/rail vertical force are analyzed as assessment criteria to verify the running stability in the two scenarios. The most unsafe position during the process of trains passing by each other and the variation of the four parameters with the speed is obtained. Then the linear fit between the four parameters and the speed has been performed, and the limiting speed under these two scenarios are also obtained. As a result, the results of this paper could provide guidance for safe running of trains passing by each other in reality.