Numerical analysis of aerodynamic noise from pantograph in high-speed trains using lattice Boltzmann method

A pantograph in contact with a catenary for power supply is one of the major aerodynamic noise sources in high-speed trains. To reduce pantograph noise, it is essential to understand the noise generation mechanism of the pantograph. However, it is difficult to determine this mechanism through measurement. Therefore, in this study, the aerodynamic and acoustic performances of a pantograph in a high-speed train were investigated through numerical analysis using the lattice Boltzmann method. First, a real-scaled pantograph was modeled through computer-aided design. Then, the surface and volume meshes of the pantograph model were generated for simulation analysis. Numerical simulation was conducted at a speed of 300 km/h based on the lattice Boltzmann method. Based on the time derivative analysis of flow pressures, it was concluded that the panhead, joint, and base were the dominant noise sources in the pantograph. In particular, various vortexes were generated from the metalized carbon strip of the panhead. The peaks of the sound pressure level propagated from the panhead were 242, 430, and 640 Hz. The noise generation mechanism was analyzed through numerical simulation using noise characteristics.