Identificação, Classificação e Propostas de manutenção das manifestações patológicas em um trecho de linha férrea no município de Uberlândia/MG

Abstract

This study aims to analyze and quantify the pathologies present in the railway superstructure along an approximately 2 km stretch of permanent way in the municipality of Uberlândia, through visual inspections carried out in the field. The research is quantitative and descriptive in nature, based on an adapted application of the method proposed by Ildefonso (2013) for the identification, classification, and evaluation of the severity of the observed pathological manifestations. The methodology focuses on the elements of the railway superstructure, specifically rails, sleepers, and fastening systems, allowing for a detailed survey of the pathologies and their distribution along the analyzed stretch. The data obtained are organized and analyzed to determine the frequency of occurrence and the level of severity of the identified pathologies, enabling the evaluation of the railway's state of conservation. The analysis of the results allows for the identification of the most critical elements of the superstructure and an understanding of the structural behavior of the track under the operational conditions and maintenance practices adopted. The pathologies found are presented using a grid, which facilitates visualization, thus contributing to the technical diagnosis of the evaluated permanent way, providing relevant information for the planning and management of railway maintenance, in addition to reinforcing the importance of continuous monitoring of pathologies to ensure operational safety and the durability of railway infrastructure.