Numerical Solution of Fence Performance for Reduction of Sand Deposition on Railway Tracks

Abstract

Movement of sand particles in nature creates many problems for humans. One of these problems is deposition of particles on rails that decrease the speed of the train or in some cases hampers the reversal of the train rails. In this paper the motion of sand particles over a railway track embankment, and how these particles settle on railway tracks are investigated. Moreover,the performance of different fences of different heights and distances has been compared. It can be stated that particle velocity is highest on the embankment slope and up to the fence and lowest around the fence. Most of the particles deposition is on the slopes or near the embankment. Fences with different heights, distances (from the railway’s longitudinal axis), and porosities are compared. Using the appropriate fence depends on the geographic and environmental factors, but in general the use of a fence with a height of 1 meter positioned at distance of 3 meters from the railway’s longitudinal axis, and with 20% porosity is recommended.