Impact of Lateral Wind Forces on DoubleStack Container Transportation

Abstract

The main objective of this research is to determine the loads that occur when lateral wind forces affect containers transported on traditional platforms, as well as on containers transported when operating heavy rolling stock. Models of both traditional container platforms and container platforms for double-stack container transportation, used in heavy-duty operations, have been developed. Computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations were conducted for the created container platform models to assess the impact of lateral wind forces of varying strength on the containers. As a result, it was established that containers loosely placed on fittings can overturn when subjected to lateral wind forces. When moving through curves and with an increase in the value of unbalanced acceleration, the probability of container overturning increases, which, in combination with high train speeds, can lead to derailments. Additional recommendations are provided to prevent container overturning by using locking fittings and other fastening methods.