Title: A CFD investigation of nozzle position effect and turbulent flow phenomena of a hyperloop model

Authors: Steven Goddard; Yufeng Yao

Addresses: University of the West of England, Bristol, BS16 1QY, UK ' University of the West of England, Bristol, BS16 1QY, UK

Abstract: This investigation analyses a conceptual hyperloop model in a low-pressure tube using CFD simulation technique. A precursor validation study, similar to a published work, is adopted, and used as a baseline model to develop a replication of hyperloop configuration. The study continues with 2D simulations of three rear nozzle positions to identify a low-drag configuration, steady 3D simulations to capture more complex mean flow features, and unsteady 3D simulation to analyse time-dependant flow characteristics. It was found that the lower the rear nozzle position, the better the drag reduction, with an optimal slope angle of 8° for no flow separation around the nozzle. Furthermore, the front nozzle before the compressor should include a divergent section with careful design of the tip geometry and angle of the nacelle. A region with high temperature occurring on the underbody of the pod highlights the importance of thermal design for heat dissipation.

Keywords: hyperloop concept; vacuum tube transport; low pressure condition CFD modelling; rear nozzle position; high-speed turbulent flow; applied multiscale mechanics; drag.

DOI: 10.1504/IJTAMM.2020.112755

International Journal of Theoretical and Applied Multiscale Mechanics, 2020 Vol.3 No.3, pp.177 - 205

Received: 12 Mar 2018
Accepted: 27 Sep 2018
Published online: 02 Feb 2021 *

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