Drucktemperatur

Drucktemperatur is the temperature at which a material, substance, or system is operated or tested under pressure. It is a key process parameter in fields where temperature and pressure influence material behavior, reaction kinetics, phase transitions, or product quality. The term is commonly used in German-speaking engineering and science contexts and can be described in English as the temperature corresponding to the pressure condition of a process or environment.

In practice, Drucktemperatur is controlled or measured with sensors that withstand the operating pressure, often inside pressure vessels, reactors, or autoclaves. Data are interpreted with pressure–temperature relationships and phase diagrams, which show how a substance transitions between phases under different combinations of P and T. Isobaric (constant pressure) or isothermal (constant temperature) conditions are frequently used to study material responses, while real processes often involve simultaneous changes in both variables.

Applications span several disciplines. In polymer processing and curing, Drucktemperatur affects cross-linking and final properties. In metal forming and ceramics, hot isostatic pressing relies on high temperature and pressure to densify materials. Hydrothermal synthesis uses Drucktemperatur to promote crystal growth, and sterilization in autoclaves operates at a defined Drucktemperatur to achieve microbial kill. In gas storage and pipeline engineering, appropriate Drucktemperatur conditions ensure safety and performance of compressed gases.

Examples illustrate typical ranges: autoclave sterilization commonly uses around 121°C at several psi above ambient pressure; hot isostatic pressing employs elevated temperatures and pressures to homogenize materials. See also pressure, temperature, P–T diagrams, isobar, and autoclave.