Non-destructive testing for the evaluation of structures using ultrasound
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.35381/i.p.v8i14.4896Keywords:
Civil engineering, construction operation, building reconstruction, (UNESCO Thesaurus).Abstract
Welding on metal structures is critical for safety in cities with seismic risk such as Cuenca. Non-destructive testing (NDT) has not been implemented in an orderly manner at the local level, increasing the risk of failure. The objective was to evaluate discontinuities in structural welds by ultrasound to improve the construction quality of metal buildings in Cuenca. Visual inspection and pulse-echo ultrasound with standardized calibration were applied, classifying the joints as acceptable, repairable or rejected. The results showed minor and localized discontinuities in works controlled under the standard, while in structures without adequate control, generalized failures were identified: lack of fusion, trapped slag and insufficient penetration. Ultrasound is effective in detecting internal discontinuities and inspection under international standards is decisive to guarantee metallic structural integrity.
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