[Objective] The reasonable configuration pattern of multi-row Z-shaped sand barriers was studied in order to provide a reference for wind and sand protection in the gobi saline-alkaline area along the Hetian-Ruoqiang Railway (HRR). [Methods] Experiments were carried out in a wind tunnel to simulate the local blown-sand environment and to test the sand-control effect of multiple rows of Z-shaped upright sand barriers with a porosity of 40%. [Results] Sand accumulation behind the folded corner of the sand barrier was separated when the angle between the face of sand barrier and the wind direction was an obtuse angle. Sand accumulation behind the folded corner of the sand barrier was aggregated when the angle between the face of the sand barrier and the wind direction was an acute angle. The sand prevention efficiency of two and three high vertical sand barriers decreased with increasing wind speed. When the wind speed was 12 m/s (level 7 wind), the sand prevention efficiency of two and three high vertical sand barriers were 74.0% and 100% respectively. When the wind speed increased to 15 m/s (level 9 wind), the respective sand prevention values were 72.7% and 88.9%. [Conclusion] It is recommended that three sand barriers should be used, with the windward side of the barriers positioned at an obtuse angle to the wind direction as far as possible.