A Generalized Numerical Simulation Method for Pressure Waves Generated by High-Speed Trains Passing through Tunnels

When high-speed trains pass through tunnels, pressure waves are generated and propagate along the tunnel. Passengers may suffer aural discomfort. A generalized numerical simulation method based on one-dimensional, compressible, unsteady, and non-homentropic flow and the method of characteristics is introduced and validated. Various applications of the method are presented. Pressure waves generated by a single train passing through and two trains passing each other in a plain tunnel are considered. Other applications in non-plain tunnels with auxiliary structures such as airshafts, cross-passages, and perforated walls are also presented. As a result, the proposed generalized numerical simulation method can be applied in most tunnel configurations and particularly used as an analytical tool in the aerodynamic design of high-speed railway tunnels.