Luftaspiration

Luftaspiration is the process of drawing air into a space or device by applying negative pressure. The term is used in German-language technical literature to describe a broad set of phenomena and techniques related to aspirating air, rather than a single standardized method.

In engineering and laboratory contexts, luftaspiration is often achieved with devices such as aspirators or venturi tubes. These create a suction that entrains ambient air into a flow stream or into a closed system. Applications include initiating flow in partially filled lines, ventilating equipment, aerating liquids, and aiding gas–liquid separations. Luftaspiration can also be employed to prevent backflow, manage pressure differentials, or control cavitation in pumps and other fluid-handling equipment.

In medical and clinical settings, the related concept of aspiration concerns drawing air or fluids from a body cavity or vessel, typically under sterile conditions. While the exact terminology varies, luftaspiration-like principles appear in devices and procedures that rely on controlled suction to remove air, fluids, or debris, or to test respiratory and pneumatic systems.

Safety and design considerations are central to luftaspiration. Key issues include maintaining sterile or clean pathways when required, preventing contamination, controlling flow rates and pressures to avoid damage to equipment or tissues, and ensuring that suction sources are properly regulated and monitored.

Because the term spans multiple disciplines, the precise meaning of luftaspiration is context-dependent. See also aspiration, suction, venturi, and pneumatic systems for related concepts.