China is pushing the boundaries of rail technology with its latest high-speed train, the CR450. Currently undergoing extensive testing, the CR450 is set to become the world's fastest bullet train, reaching speeds of up to 450 kilometers per hour!
Engineers at the test center are meticulously managing the weight control of the CR450 prototypes. By installing sensors on the tracks, they transmit real-time weight data from each of the eight wheels on both sides of every carriage to a computer system. This ensures precise monitoring and adjustments for optimal performance.
\"While reducing the weight, we must ensure that its strength does not decrease, and we even need to increase its strength because of the higher speed. It's just like a person who wants to slim down while building strength. This involves structural changes and material innovations,\" said Chen Can, an associate researcher at the Locomotive and Vehicle Research Institute China Academy of Railway Sciences (CARS).
To minimize air resistance during high-speed operations, researchers overcame challenges like resonance and heat dissipation. For the first time, they enclosed the entire bogie area underneath the train, enhancing aerodynamics.
\"Ensuring the smoothness of the entire train body minimizes resistance during operation,\" explained Ha Dalei, a senior designer at the National Engineering Research Center of Rail Transportation of China Railway Rolling Stock Corporation (CRRC) Changchun Railway Vehicles.
The CR450 prototype has successfully completed static and low-speed dynamic tests in traction, braking, and noise. The next phase involves gradually increasing speeds during dynamic running tests.
China is currently the only country to have achieved commercial high-speed rail operations at 350 kilometers per hour. With the CR450, this speed is set to increase by an additional 50 kilometers per hour, marking a significant milestone in rail transportation.
Zhang Bo, director of the Locomotive and Vehicle Research Institute at CARS, highlighted the team's dedication: \"The team has spent years validating the technical feasibility, determining reasonable top-level technical standards, and setting the technical route. Overcoming the difficulties of a 50-kilometer-per-hour speed increase is significant, ensuring higher speeds and safer operations while reducing drag and energy consumption.\"
Technological innovations in the CR450 have reduced drag by up to 22%, making the train body smoother and more aerodynamic. Zhang also emphasized that while speed is a key performance indicator, the team is mindful of the train's environmental impact.
Reference(s):
Prototypes of China's new CR450 high-speed train undergo testing
cgtn.com
