Utilização de ondas acústicas e análise computacional para avaliação da degradação de tubos hidráulicos expostos à radiação solar

Abstract

This study investigated the effects of solar exposure on the physical and mechanical. This study investigated the effects of solar exposure on the physical and mechanical properties of PVC, CPVC, and PPR hydraulic pipe samples. These effects were assessed through observations of acoustic signals, frequency spectra, Shore D hardness, compressive strength, and ultrasonic wave propagation. Computational analyses performed using MATLAB and Origin 7.0 software enabled accurate extraction and visualization of the data obtained experimentally. The results revealed that ultraviolet radiation causes significant changes in the pipes, such as discoloration, surface drying, and increased stiffness. The PPR pipe was the most sensitive to exposure, exhibiting brittle rupture after the application of a compressive load. Ultrasonic testing was effective in detecting changes in mechanical properties, with the attenuation coefficient being a particularly sensitive parameter. The results of this study demonstrate that solar exposure can compromise the performance and durability of hydraulic pipes, highlighting the need for caution in storage and applications in outdoor environments.