SKM were engaged to complete the 4GT crashworthiness assessment
The Structural Dynamics Group of Sinclair Knight Merz were engaged by EDI Rail to carry out the crashworthiness assessment of the Fourth Generation Train (4GT). The 4GT is an electric train set that will supplement the Tangara fleet of passenger cars on the Sydney rail network. These double-decker trains consist of sets of four coupled vehicles. Two cars in the set have drive motors and the remaining two, that is at the lead and end, are trailer units. Each carriage in the consist is fitted with energy absorbing devices or sacrificial components. These are deformable elements that are designed to dissipate energy in the event of a collision.
50 km/h collision between 2 4GT sets modelled using computer simulation
The principal objective of the project was to demonstrate compliance with the Crashworthiness Technical Requirements stipulated by the State Rail Authority of NSW for the 4GT manufacturing contract. The scenario under evaluation involved a collision between a 4GT travelling at 50km/h and another stationary 4GT. Compliance with specification requirements was demonstrated using computer simulation techniques.
State-of-the-art technology
PAM-CRASH, one of the world’s premier crash codes for train crash simulation, was used for this study. Mathematically, PAM-CRASH is based on the explicit Finite Element method. The software can model the necessary details of complex structures under quasi-static and dynamic loading conditions, especially those experienced in extreme conditions such as crash and projectile impacts.
SKM’s crash analysis enabled enhanced crashworthiness design
Crash simulations provided EDI Rail with valuable information during the product design phase, resulting in an enhanced design with a higher level of crashworthiness protection.