High-speed networks and trains

This chapter deals with high-speed networks and trains. An increase in speed over a certain threshold creates a series of problems, the handling of which requires specific interventions in both the rolling stock and the track. Initially, the aforementioned problems are analysed and, for each one of them, mitigation measures are presented. Subsequently, and after distinguishing between high and very high-speed trains, an updated (end of 2019) overview of the evolution of very high networks and trains is given. Finally, a case study is developed concerning the choice of the minimum horizontal alignment curve radius for a high-speed track.