Painekaasukkaat

Painekaasukkaat, often translated as compressed gases, are substances that exist in a gaseous state under normal conditions but are stored under pressure. This pressure allows a large quantity of gas to be held within a relatively small volume. The pressure is typically achieved by reducing the temperature of the gas or by compressing it to a fraction of its normal volume.

Various gases are stored as painekaasukkaat for diverse applications. Common examples include oxygen, used in medical settings and for welding; nitrogen, utilized in food packaging, tire inflation, and as an inert atmosphere; and acetylene, primarily employed in welding and cutting due to its high flame temperature. Propane and butane, commonly known as liquefied petroleum gas (LPG), are also painekaasukkaat used for heating and cooking.

The storage of painekaasukkaat requires specialized containers, such as cylinders or tanks, designed to withstand high pressures safely. These containers are subject to stringent safety regulations and regular inspections to prevent leaks or rupture. Proper handling procedures are crucial to avoid accidents, as the release of compressed gases can pose risks such as asphyxiation, fire, or explosion, depending on the nature of the gas. The density of gases under pressure also means that even a small leak can rapidly displace breathable air.