Research on regulation method for suppression of pantograph-catenary arc by airflow in low-pressure environment
Year: 2026
Type: article
Abstract: The Pantograph-Catenary (P-C) arc is a common phenomenon in the P-C current collection system. System faults caused by P-C arcs are the main factor affecting the safe and stable operation of trains. With the extension of global rail transit to plateau areas, the problem of frequent P-C arc in a low-pressure environment needs to be solved urgently. Therefore, the MHD model of P-C arc regulation in a low-pressure environment is established, and the influence of longitudinal airflow on the arc's dynamic characteristics is studied. Findings indicate that longitudinal airflow can effectively suppress the arc drift phenomenon of P-C arcs. Moreover, the arc is easier to regulate effectively with decreasing air pressure, and the control effect can reach 100%. In addition, longitudinal airflow can reduce the arc temperature. The optimal airflow speeds for longitudinal airflow regulation at different air pressures are obtained. A testing platform for P-C arc regulation is built. The effect of longitudinal airflow on arc drift regulation is verified, and it is found that airflow regulation can also effectively reduce the ablation failure on electrodes caused by the arc. This study provides theoretical guidance for improving the service life of the P-C system.
Source: iScience
Institutions: Henan University of Technology, Southwest Jiaotong University
Language: English
Subfield: Mechanical Engineering
Field: Engineering
Domain: Physical Sciences
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $3,240
OpenAlex ID: W7223019321