The Aerodynamics of a Container Freight Train

Authors: Soper, David
Nominated as an outstanding Ph.D. thesis by the University of Birmingham
Highlights the issues associated with the aerodynamic development around a freight train, and provides the foundations for further research
Provides a basis from which to develop international safety standards in relation to freight, as well as high speed trains

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.

Number of Illustrations and Tables
11 b/w illustrations, 135 illustrations in colour
Topics
Transportation Technology and Traffic Engineering
Fluid- and Aerodynamics
Quality Control, Reliability, Safety and Risk

Click Here to Buy the Hardcover from Springer



Click Here for More books