Work

Numerical Study on Tube Shape Influence on Aerodynamic Drag in an Evacuated Tube Transport System

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: This study investigates the impact of tube shape on the aerodynamic forces experienced by an evacuated tube transportation (ETT) system. Using CFD simulations, the study explores various tube geometries to discern their influence on aerodynamic forces, particularly drag, critical for high-speed travel. The investigation centers on a standard tube shape derived from maglev design, considering parameters like tube radius, guideway height, and eccentricity between the tube and pod, with pod speeds ranging from 50 to 350 m/s. The study also examines the influence of the levitation air gap. The findings reveal that aerodynamic drag is mainly dictated by the blockage ratio (BR), especially within the range of 0.5 < BR < 0.68. An empirical formula is proposed to estimate aerodynamic drag based on BR and pod speed, validated against CFD results with a maximum error of 6.26%. These insights guide the aerodynamic design of vacuum-based ETT systems.

Source: International Journal of Aeronautical and Space Sciences

DOI: 10.1007/s42405-025-00915-9

Authors: Minki Cho, Yejun Oh, Jaiyoung Ryu, Suyong Choi

Institutions: Korea Railroad Research Institute, Korea University

Language: English

Topic: Aerodynamics and Fluid Dynamics Research

Subfield: Aerospace Engineering

Field: Engineering

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDG: Industry, innovation and infrastructure

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $3,490