Time domain analysis of catenary response characteristics caused by ambient wind

Abstract

Abstract The catenary system, as a framework within railway electrification projects, constitutes an exposed suspension structure deployed along railway lines. It serves the purpose of providing electrical power to electric locomotives through pantographs but lacks backup facilities and falls into the category of a specialized form of high-voltage transmission line. To ensure the safety and reliability of the catenary system and the stable current collection of the pantograph, thereby safeguarding railway operational safety, it is imperative to research the aerodynamic response of the catenary system induced by environmental winds. For this study, the catenary system in the 4m windbreak wall section of the Lanzhou-Xinjiang high-speed railway bridge has been selected as the research subject. To determine wind speed correction coefficients at the supporting cable and contact wire locations, a finite element model was created using wind tunnel experiments and numerical simulations. Samples of wind speed fluctuation have been obtained using the harmonic synthesis method. Based on quasi-steady aerodynamic theory, a temporal analysis has been conducted on the aerodynamic response of supporting cables and contact wires under the influence of both average and fluctuating winds. Temporal results, such as lift at positive and negative positioning locations and mid-span displacement, have been extracted to assess whether the existing structure complies with regulatory requirements. This study offers valuable insights for engineering applications that are similar.