Review of the Numerical and Experimental Studies of the Hyperloop

The paper presents an overview of theoretical, computational, and experimental studies devoted to the modeling of the aerodynamics of different configurations of the high-speed Hyperloop train representing a pod (wagon) in motion within a tunnel, where a considerable rarefaction is ensured. A noticeable increase of the train velocity is expected under these conditions; it can be greater than 1200 km/h. The review gives a compact presentation of the information on the most characteristic conditions of the potential operation of Hyperloop, such as the gathered velocity, the pressure and temperature in the tunnel, and the ratio of the pod and tunnel cross-sectional areas. The main gasdynamic features of the high-speed Hyperloop motion in a tunnel with rarefied gas are listed; they have the governing effect on aerothermodynamic characteristics and the general efficiency of this transport system.