Numerical study on the effect of pantograph fairing on aerodynamic performance at various train heights

The pantograph is one of the primary sources of aerodynamic drag and noise during the operation of a high-speed train. To investigate the impact of the pantograph fairing on the aerodynamic performance at various train heights, six computational models are established, and the Improved Delayed Detached Eddy Simulation method is employed. The results indicate that the installation of the fairing can effectively reduce the aerodynamic drag coefficient of the high-speed train and pantograph at different train heights. As the train height increases, the drag reduction effect of the fairing enhances when the sinking platform coexists. The overall drag reduction rate of up to 4.30% can be achieved at a train height of 4000 mm. However, the larger reduction rate of 58.32% in the pantograph's drag coefficient at a train height of 3700 mm indicates that the fairing could make a greater effect on the pantograph at a smaller train height. The reduction in train height and pantograph sinking height leads to an increase in drag coefficient on the tail car, and the implementation of the fairing further amplifies the drag. This work offers a reference for optimizing the aerodynamic performance of high-speed train.