Lang, James Alexander Joseph ORCID: 0009-0002-9442-3241
(2024)
Aerodynamic Characteristics of a Generic Hyperloop System.
Integrated PhD and Master thesis, University of Leeds.
Abstract
Hyperloop is a proposed mode of ground transport that uses depressurised tubes to transport passengers and cargo at high-speeds. The aerodynamic flow regime of a Hyperloop system combines the characteristics of low Reynolds number, high Mach number, and confined/choked flow. This makes it unique compared to more commonly studied aerodynamics problems, and as such it is not yet well understood.
The first section of this project comprises a literature review which aims to evaluate the current state of Hyperloop aerodynamics research. A thorough discussion is presented on the theoretical and numerical methods that have been used to analyse the flow characteristics in model Hyperloop systems.
From here, a rigorous baseline model is constructed by adapting a validated set of simulations for the aerodynamics of a projectile in ground effect. The validation case and baseline model are proposed as representative benchmark cases for numerical simulations of a generic Hyperloop system.
The effects of blockage ratio and Mach number are then considered, as these are the fundamental parameters that determine the flow state of a Hyperloop system. Four primary flow states are observed in the simulations, which is in accord with predictions from 1D theoretical analysis.
Finally, a parametric study of the tube shape is performed, with the objective of reducing the aerodynamic drag on the pod. This highlights that non-circular tube shapes may be preferred, alongside a need to maximise the symmetry of the configuration where possible.
Overall, a number of insights into the expected aerodynamics of Hyperloop systems are found, which will hopefully pave the way for future research efforts in this unique application.
Metadata
Supervisors: | Gilkeson, Carl and Connolly, David and de Boer, Gregory and Shahpar, Shahrokh and Hinchliffe, Benjamin |
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Awarding institution: | University of Leeds |
Academic Units: | The University of Leeds > Faculty of Engineering (Leeds) > School of Computing (Leeds) |
Depositing User: | J. Alex Lang |
Date Deposited: | 04 Jul 2025 12:30 |
Last Modified: | 04 Jul 2025 12:33 |
Open Archives Initiative ID (OAI ID): | oai:etheses.whiterose.ac.uk:36922 |
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