Numerical Simulation and Parameter Optimization of a New Slant Insertion-Opening Combination Sand Fence

Abstract

This paper presents a new slant insertion-opening combination sand fence designed to reduce the hazards of traditional railway sand damage along the line. This new fence aims to decrease the disturbance caused by lateral wind on the high-speed railway and minimize the deposition of track sand particles. Numerical modeling and wind tunnel testing were employed to examine the structure’s defensive capabilities. Using the computational fluid dynamics (CFD) method and the Eulerian–Eulerian two-fluid model, the wind protection effect and airflow characteristics of the new sand fence with different slant insertion angles and spacings were simulated, and the optimal configuration parameters were selected. The study found that the new mechanical sand fence exhibits similar performance to the traditional sand fence. Since there is a “narrow tube effect”, the leeward side of the inclined plate generates a local high-speed airflow zone. In the top acceleration zone, the new mechanical sand fence efficiently lowers air velocity, thereby enhancing its protective capabilities. Moreover, the optimal protective performance of the new mechanical sand fence is achieved with an inclination angle of 15°, with improved protection observed as the angle increases. Additionally, the protective performance of double rows of these fences is influenced by the spacing between them. Increasing the distance between the two rows enhances protective performance, with the optimal protection achieved at a spacing of 25H. Beyond this distance, protective performance decreases.