On the dynamic behaviour of catenary-pantographs subject to wind loads

Abstract

Wind load effects on overhead catenary lines have acquired more importance in recent years such that the main European railways companies established limits on the velocity of the train passing through this system depending on wind speed. Moreover, wind effects are one of the most important aspects of design to ensure the interoperability such that not every width of the pantograph fits the contact requirements of different countries. The achievement of a flexible three-dimensional model for the catenary-pantograph dynamic behaviour together with the stochastic characterization of wind loads allow us to draw conclusions about the effect of wind on this complex interaction under different conditions. The effect has been evaluated on the contact force, uplift at the masts and lateral displacement while the angle of attack of the wind gusts and the wind and train speeds are varied. The results obtained permit practical criteria to be established, mainly focused on the optimal operation of the railway system.