Wind tunnel experimental investigation on the aerodynamic loads and dynamic response of full-scale pantographs designed for 400 km/h operation

To investigate the aerodynamic load intensity and dynamic response characteristics of the pantograph under high-speed operating conditions, a full-scale wind tunnel test was conducted, with wind speeds ranging from 160 to 400 km/h. The global aerodynamic load amplitude of the pantograph was measured under different working heights and operating modes. Meanwhile, the pantograph–catenary contact force and the vertical acceleration of the contact strip were recorded, and the effects of contact strip wear on the relevant indicators were evaluated. The results indicate that, at the standard working height, the global aerodynamic load amplitude of the pantograph generally increases with speed, with the drag force and pitching moment exhibiting the most pronounced growth. At 400 km/h, the drag forces under forward and reverse operating modes reach 2.10 kN and 2.22 kN, respectively, while the corresponding pitching moments reach 1.79 kN m and 2.31 kN m. At the elevated working height, the global aerodynamic load level increases further, with the drag amplitude rising by more than 26% at 275 km/h. The mean contact force, the root mean square (RMS) contact force, and the RMS acceleration generally increase with operating speed. Frequency-domain analysis indicates that when the speed exceeds 250 km/h, the dominant frequency of the contact force remains mainly in the low-frequency range below 13.5 Hz. Variations in working height and contact strip wear significantly influence the dynamic response. This study provides an experimental basis for further optimization of pantograph design and long-term reliable service and is significant for ensuring stable train operation.