High-speed maglev trains are recognized for their superior velocity,
environmental benefits, and enhanced passenger comfort, positioning them as a
key area of interest in modern transport research. Nonetheless, tunnel
operations introduce complex aerodynamic challenges that can impede performance.
This research examines the aerodynamic load behaviors of maglev trains in single
and double-track tunnel settings, with particular emphasis on transient drag
variations in lead and trail cars during solo and passing operations. A
computational fluid dynamics model was constructed to capture detailed flow
field attributes, including pressure wave propagation, reflection, and
superposition. Findings indicate that aerodynamic loads intensify with
increasing speed. When velocity rises from 300 km/h to 600 km/h during solo
tunnel transit, the lateral force on the head-car and the drag on the trail-car
both surge approximately fivefold. During meets in double-track tunnels, the
head-car’s lift force increases most drastically—by 7.6 times. Entry and exit
events induce pressure waves that cause notable drag fluctuations on both cars,
with train interactions further amplifying these variations in dual-track
scenarios.