Druckverhältnis

Druckverhältnis, often translated as pressure ratio, is a dimensionless quantity used in thermodynamics and fluid mechanics. It quantifies the relationship between two pressures. Typically, it is defined as the ratio of a higher pressure to a lower pressure. For instance, in a compressor or turbine, the pressure ratio would be the outlet pressure divided by the inlet pressure. A pressure ratio greater than one indicates an increase in pressure, while a ratio less than one signifies a decrease.

The concept of pressure ratio is fundamental in understanding the performance and efficiency of various machines. In jet engines, for instance, the overall pressure ratio of the engine is a key performance indicator, influencing thrust and fuel consumption. Similarly, in pumps and fans, the pressure ratio helps characterize their capabilities. In the context of aerodynamics, it can describe pressure differences across a surface or within a flow field. It is also employed in analyzing gas expansion and compression processes, such as those occurring in internal combustion engines or refrigeration cycles. Accurately calculating and understanding the pressure ratio is crucial for system design, analysis, and optimization in many engineering applications.