China's "Bird Train" has left Russian railways envious

China promises to boost economic development through the super train

Author: Dmitry Kapustkin

Photo: CR450 "Fuxing" High-speed Train

Another revolutionary innovation introduced by China, which not only makes Russia but also the West jealous. This is the CR450 "Fuxing" high-speed train, which can reach a speed of 450 kilometers per hour. The highlights of this train are not only its speed, but it is a model of future transportation: energy-efficient, safe, and comfortable.

This new train is manufactured by China's railway giant - the state-owned enterprise CRRC (equivalent to Russia's "Russian Railways"). Just reading the specifications of this new train will leave one in awe of every detail.

Due to the use of carbon fiber materials, the weight of the new train has been reduced by 10%, and the axle load is now less than 14.5 tons. In contrast: old Russian trains (those heavy metal trains) have an axle load of 21 tons, while more modern double-deck trains (made of composite materials) have an axle load of no less than 18 tons.

Researchers from the China Academy of Railway Sciences, led by Professor Shao Chunyun, improved the shape of the train's head to enhance aerodynamic performance and reduce resistance. They drew inspiration from nature, designing an appearance similar to a fast-flying bird.

The engineering team also modified the train's running gear, focusing on optimizing the covering structure to protect the exposed parts of the bogie and give it a more perfect aerodynamic shape.

After multiple structural optimizations, the frontal resistance of the train was reduced by 22%, and the braking efficiency was increased by 20%. At a speed of 400 km/h, the energy consumption dropped to 22 kWh/km, and the noise level was reduced by 2-4 decibels.

According to the developers, even if the speed increases by 50 km/h, the energy consumption of this new train remains comparable to that of the CR400 "Fuxing" train traveling at 350 km/h. This means that the energy consumption of this new train is the same as that of existing high-speed trains (but with lower speeds!).

To achieve these results, this Chinese state-owned enterprise has adopted a permanent magnet traction system and advanced braking technology, ensuring high performance and high energy efficiency.

The safety of the train is guaranteed by a multi-level emergency braking system, which is equipped with over 4,000 sensors. These sensors monitor the bogie, body, pantograph, and fire protection system in real time.

The train is equipped with a machine vision system (called the "beyond sight" system): this system helps detect obstacles on the track in advance, improving reliability at high speeds and reducing the risk of accidents.

In operational tests, this Chinese super train reached a speed of 453 km/h and crossed the Meizhou Bay Bridge at a record-breaking speed.

The next tests will take place on the Chengdu-Chongqing route. After infrastructure upgrades, the train will be able to cruise at a speed of 400 km/h on this route.

This Chinese project includes not only manufacturing new trains. To allow these trains to run on tracks, China Railway will work on reinforcing the subgrade, building bridges and overpasses, and installing noise barriers and new rail joints.

What is most enviable, especially for Russia: this new train is a result of the "Scientific and Technological Innovation" program launched by CRRC in 2021.

The core task set by the leader for this state-owned enterprise is to break through technical barriers and achieve new heights in train speed, safety, and energy efficiency.

Moreover, this is not a directive forgotten by subordinates from the leader of a superpower. All the leader's instructions have been implemented!

The development of this new generation of high-speed trains aligns with the "Made in China 2025" strategy, which aims to develop high-tech industries and enhance China's innovative potential. However, the CR450 "Fuxing" is not just another of China's many innovations.

This train also has political significance because China is striving to consolidate its position as a leader in the global high-speed rail transport sector.

China has the world's longest high-speed rail network, and the introduction of these new, more efficient trains will significantly enhance the competitiveness of China's railway industry.

People will be able to travel between major cities more quickly, which means that China's economy will gain new momentum.

Original article: https://www.toutiao.com/article/7533168032516981291/

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