Electromagnetic Environment Assessment and Safety Research of Electrified High-Speed Railway Carriages

Abstract

With the advent of modern, high-speed electrified rail systems, there has been increasing concern about electromagnetic safety in rail carriages. The aim of this study was to assess the electromagnetic safety of passengers on trains by utilizing advanced 3D electromagnetic simulation software. A comprehensive model of the electromagnetic environment experienced by passengers on a CR400AF train, specifically under the influence of catenary radiation, was constructed. We analyzed the magnetic field strength, electric field strength, and current density in the brains of 20 passengers in various positions in the train. The findings revealed that among the 20 passengers analyzed, the maximum and minimum magnetic induction intensity recorded in the brain were 8.41 and 0.01 μT, respectively. The maximum and minimum induced electric field intensities were 1110 and 10 μV/m, respectively. Lastly, the maximum and minimum induced current densities were 1200 and 10 μA/m2, respectively. The results show that when people ride on the CR400AF train, the magnetic induction intensity, induced electric field strength, and induced current density in the brain are below the recommended basic limits of exposure to power frequency electromagnetic fields in the guidelines of the International Committee on Non-Ionizing Radiation Protection. The power frequency magnetic field generated by the catenary can be effectively shielded by the aluminum alloy car body. The final result of this study indicates that the electromagnetic exposure from the contact wire at the level 25 kV does not pose a threat to the health of passengers on the CR400AF train.