Numerical analysis of aerodynamic characteristics of multi-pod hyperloop system

Abstract

The Hyperloop system is a new and innovative mode of transportation in which high-speed pods move through near-vacuum tubes. The multi-pod Hyperloop Systems are essential for increased transportation capacity. In this study, a multi-pod Hyperloop System was analyzed using numerical simulations at different values of the distance between the pods (i.e., 2 L–3.5 L). The pressure and velocity flow fields and the aerodynamic characteristics of the pods were analyzed for four different flow speeds, that is, 100, 200, 300, and 400 m/s, using unsteady compressible flow conditions. The simulation results indicated that the pressure waves generated across the pods play a significant role in the determination of the aerodynamic characteristics of the pods. Increasing the distance between the pods results in the delay of the pressure wave interaction. The aerodynamic drag increases on the first pod with the increase in the distance between the pods due to an increase in the pressure gradient. In contrast, the aerodynamic drag decreases across the second pod with the increase in the distance between them. So, the distance between the pods is a critical factor that should be considered when designing the Hyperloop System with more than one pod.