pressurised

Pressurised is the condition of an environment, vessel, or system in which the internal pressure is maintained above or controlled relative to the external ambient pressure. In British English, the term describes situations where pressure is actively managed to achieve a required state for safety, operation, or comfort.

Physically, pressure is the force exerted per unit area. Pressurised systems use a gas or liquid source, such as a compressor or pump, to raise and maintain pressure. Control mechanisms, including valves, regulators, and sensors, monitor the pressure and adjust flow to keep it within set limits. Safety devices like relief valves vent excess pressure to prevent structural failure.

Common applications include aviation, where aircraft cabins are pressurised to simulate lower altitudes; submarines and spacecraft, where the hull or compartment pressures must remain within safe ranges; and pressurised water or gas systems in buildings and industry. Consumer and industrial products, such as pressurised containers and packaging, are designed to withstand specified internal pressures to preserve contents or enable operation.

Safety and reliability are central to pressurised designs. Overpressure can lead to structural damage or injury, while underpressure may impair system function. Designs incorporate rated materials, redundancy, monitoring, and venting to manage pressure changes due to temperature, altitude, or component failure.

Noun and spelling variations include pressurisation (British) or pressurization (American) as the process, and pressurised or pressurized as the adjective. The verb forms are to pressurise or to pressurize.