DEFINIÇÃO DE ZONA DE CONFORTO TÉRMICO PARA ÁREAS EXTERNAS UTILIZANDO O ÍNDICE PET PARA PELOTAS - RS

Abstract

Survey methods for the definition of thermal comfort ranges in outdoor areas still do not follow guidelines as established by existing standards in indoor spaces. Morphological variations in outdoor areas affect microclimate, which interferes in the satisfaction of its users regarding thermal perception. Studies that use thermal comfort indices together with surveys with locals in outdoor areas allow a definition of thermal comfort zones. In this article, the physiological equivalent temperature (PET) index was applied to data collected in Pelotas - RS during the months of August and October (during which monitoring campaigns with concurrent interviews with the resident population were carried out). Two hundred and thirty questionnaires were applied to passers-by in order to analyze thermal perception in open areas. Data gathering was undertaken with a TGD-400, which records global temperature data; dry bulb temperature; wet bulb temperature; WBGT; heating rate; air flow and air velocity. Mean radiant temperature (TMRT) and PET values were calculated, enabling a preliminary definition of an outdoor thermal comfort zone for Pelotas. For the months studied, thermal neutrality is obtained when the PET value is 20.73°C. The lower and upper limits for the comfort zone are, respectively, 16.30°C and 25.15°C, in PET units.