Dynamic response of high-speed train-track-bridge coupled system under combined wind and snow

Abstract

The dynamic response of high-speed trains under meteorological hazards concerns operation safety and serviceability. This paper investigates the dynamic response of high-speed train-track-bridge coupled system subject to combined wind and snow. A numerical model integrating a computational fluid dynamics model and a multi-body dynamics model was established to predict the dynamic response of the couple system. The computational fluid dynamics model was used to analyze the aerodynamic loads applied to the coupled systems. The multi-body dynamics model was used to analyze the dynamic response of the coupled system under the aerodynamic loads. The effects of train speed, wind speed, and snow depth on the dynamic response were evaluated. A law was formulated to specify the speed limits for safe operation of high-speed trains. The results showed that combining wind and snow aggravated the dynamic response of high-speed trains via altering the aerodynamic loads applied to the coupled system. This research will promote practical operation and management of high-speed trains.