Observations and numerical simulations of the train-induced air flow in a subway station

This article presents observations and model simulations of wind and temperature in a subway station. The measurements are taken from an experiment with three ultrasonic anemometers at different levels in the underground facility. The available observations indicate a wind regime with a continuous background flow and train-induced ventilation with very effective air exchange between the platform level and the street level. Model simulations with a resolution of less than 1m were performed with running trains in accordance with a regular timetable. The results demonstrate the applicability of the model to the complex underground geometry. Calculated time series of wind and temperature are very comparable to the observations. The findings of a parameter study indicate the necessity to record all details of train movements in order to define appropriate initial and boundary conditions for the model and to explain the observations correctly.