The effect of track structure on the aerodynamic characteristics of evacuated tube maglev train

The emergence of evacuated tube maglev transportation makes it possible for ground ultra-high-speed rail transit. However, limited by the demand for high-power propulsion motors and low vacuum environment, it is difficult to carry out experimental research. In this paper, the numerical research on the aerodynamic layout of the magnetic track and motor is carried out in the preliminary design of the Dynamic Model Test Platform for Multistate Coupled Rail Transit. Based on the geometric structure of the dynamic model test platform, considering the actual arrangement of the motor platform and the permanent magnet track in the tube, the three-dimensional, compressible RANS method and SST k–ω turbulence model are used to calculate the three-dimensional flow field structure and the shock wave reflection, propagation law of the superconducting maglev train in the low-pressure tube at ultra-high speed. The influence of the rectangular channel on the aerodynamic loads of the train and the flow field in the tube is compared and analyzed. The differences of the pressure and velocity change trend at the bottom of the train, and the shock wave strength at the tail and the wake structure are mainly explored. It is found that the step of the magnetic track and the motor can cause more flow separation and shock reflection in the wake region, resulting in tail pressure fluctuations. When the rectangular channel exists, the shock wave intensity at the tail of the train decreases, the shock wave phenomenon is more obvious, the aerodynamic drag coefficient decreases by 8.855%, and the aerodynamic lift coefficient increases by 14.312%. The research results can provide reference for the design of the magnetic track and motor platform of the multi-state coupling rail transit dynamic model test platform.