Numerical approach for the simulation of flow-induced noise around a structure with complex geometry: high-speed train bogie in a cavity

Abstract

The bogie region is a significant aerodynamic noise source on high-speed trains. Due to its complex geometry and flow field, numerical simulations using Computational Fluid Dynamics are especially challenging. The main challenge is to achieve a grid with adequate resolution, especially in the boundary layer, while ensuring computational affordability. This study addresses the challenge by employing a hybrid grid, integrating structured hexahedral mesh near solid surfaces with unstructured polyhedral mesh in the remaining volume. To limit the number of cells in the boundary layer region, the Delayed Detached Eddy Simulation method is selected. Additionally, to achieve a further reduction in the cell count, the Reynolds number of the model is decreased by scaling down the model size and lowering the inflow speed. The hybrid grid generation and numerical settings are guided by validated simulations of flow over cylinders. A grid sensitivity study, conducted with a simplified half-width bogie model, reveals the meshing requirements for the full-width model. Aerodynamic results highlight the rear section of the cavity and bogie as primary noise sources, emphasizing the critical role of the detached shear layer from upstream components. Time-resolved surface pressure data are input into the Ffowcs-Williams and Hawkings equation for far-field noise calculation. The results indicate that the sound energy is concentrated below 200 Hz in the full-scale model, with the cavity contributing more than the bogie. This study provides a practical numerical approach for simulating a structure with complex geometry, offering insights for realistic model simulations.

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ORCID for David Thompson: orcid.org/0000-0002-7964-5906

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