Modelling and simulation of double-pantograph catenary system of Taiwan railway

Abstract In view of the insufficient transportation capacity of Taiwan Railways in populated urban areas and intercity railways, increasing the maximum operating speed can be a solution for the problem. However, it is unknown whether the overhead contact line (OCL) system of the Taiwan Railways can tolerate such speed changes. For the unique railway system used in Taiwan, the literature does not present research on the dynamic interaction behaviour for the typical EMU trains with two pantographs, which are widely used in Taiwan railway system. Further, in response to the government policy to localize the supply chain of railway components, this research aims to establish a reliable simulation model so that domestic manufacturers may use this model for the design and development of the pantograph-catenary system. In this study, the catenary system model is established based on theoretic principles, specifications and parameters are adapted from data used by Taiwan Railway Co. The pantograph model was constructed as multi-body model, with parameters taken from the pantograph equipped on the TEMU2000 tilting train. This model is used to analyse catenary system to investigate the potential loss of contact between the double pantographs and the contact wire with increased train speed. The loss of contact and other phenomena will be analysed to explore possible solutions or optimization strategies for catenary system design.