Analysis of the sand-retaining range and installation distance of porous sand siding using the CFD-DPM method
Erecting porous sand sidings along railway tracks is a primary measure for mitigating sand intrusion of railways in desert areas.This study utilized the CFD-DPM numerical simulation technique to determine the optimal installation distance between porous sand sidings and railway tracks by conducting wind-sand flow experiments on 23 porous sand sidings,each characterized by varying structural parameters.The analysis focused on their wind-sand flow field characteristics,identifying key factors that influence the optimal installation distance.The findings revealed that:(1)Porous sand sidings exhibit diminished convective flow,reduced vortex formation,and a more homogeneous pressure distribution on the leeward side than their non-porous counterparts,which enhanced sand-retention capabilities.(2)The windless zone on the leeward side of the porous sand sidings is susceptible to dust accumulation,adversely affecting sand-retention performance;hence,the distance between the porous sand sidings and this windless area represents the minimum installation distance required.(3)An empirical formula has been proposed to calculate the minimum installation distance based on the resistance coefficient of the sand sidings.