Analysis of the thermal variations in a moving pantograph strip using an electro-thermal simulation tool and validating by experimental tests

Abstract

<jats:p> The performance of the pantograph–catenary system is very significant in supplying reliable electrical power for the operation of trains. Many problems arise due to the increase in temperature inside the pantograph strip. More research works have been done to study the temperature extrema of the system but it is quite difficult to obtain the experimental values during a real-time train operation. Moreover, performing experimental tests needs a representative test bench of the system or a real train. This is challenging owing to the time and availability of materials and taking into account the number of physical phenomena to control and measure. To address this problem, the authors of this study present an electro-thermal modeling tool. The heat sources which characterize the system are analyzed to generate a heat equation formulation. This equation is solved with the finite differences numerical method in order to obtain the temperature distribution in the pantograph strip. In addition, some specifications such as computation time or required memory are taken into account. More precisely, mathematical and numerical optimizations are proposed to improve these specifications. The tool is validated by comparing the simulated results with the experimental tests obtained from a test bench located at POLIMI (Polytechnico Di Milano, Milan). Finally, thermal interpretations as well as relative gap analyses are done in different situations. </jats:p>

Study on thermo-mechanical coupling model in pantograph-catenary system of rail vehicle

“…With the rapid development of high-speed railway systems, the operating environment for high-speed trains has become increasingly complex. The thermal effects experienced by the PAC system during operation can lead to reduced equipment performance, shortened lifespan, and even the occurrence of safety accidents [2]. Therefore, studying the thermal-mechanical coupling effects within the PAC system is of great significance for enhancing the system's reliability and efficiency.…”

Thermical study of an electrical sliding link represeting a catenary pantograh system

“…Consequently it's a highly coupled thermo-electro-mechanical system, complex to study. Arisen from a partnership with the Rolling Stock Engineering Center of the Société Nationale des Chemins de fer Français(SNCF), two theoretical studies from T.Bausseron [2] and N.Delcey [3] with associated modelling tools have been achieved to characterize a LPC. One for a stationary train and the second for a moving one.…”