Air-lock

Air-lock An air-lock is a device used to prevent the passage of air or other gases between two spaces. It is commonly used in various industries and applications, including spacecraft, submarines, cleanrooms, and hyperbaric chambers. The primary function of an air-lock is to maintain different pressure levels or to prevent contamination between the two environments it separates.

Design and Function

Air-locks typically consist of a small chamber with two airtight doors in series, which do not open simultaneously. This design ensures that when one door is open, the other is closed, thereby preventing the direct flow of air or gases between the two spaces. The chamber can be pressurized or depressurized as needed to match the pressure of the adjoining space before the second door is opened.

Types of Air-locks

• Pressure Air-locks: Used in environments where maintaining different pressure levels is crucial, such as in spacecraft and submarines.
• Cleanroom Air-locks: Used to prevent contamination in controlled environments like cleanrooms and laboratories.
• Hyperbaric Air-locks: Found in hyperbaric chambers used for medical treatments and diving operations.

Applications

• Spacecraft: Air-locks are essential in spacecraft to allow astronauts to exit and enter the vehicle without compromising the internal atmosphere.
• Submarines: Used to maintain the integrity of the vessel's internal pressure while allowing crew members to enter and exit.
• Cleanrooms: Prevents contamination by controlling the flow of air and particles between different areas.
• Hyperbaric Chambers: Used to safely transition patients or divers between different pressure environments.

Operation

The operation of an air-lock involves several steps: 1. The person or object enters the air-lock and closes the first door. 2. The air-lock adjusts its internal pressure or environment to match the target space. 3. The second door opens, allowing passage to the other side.

Related Pages

• Spacecraft
• Submarine
• Cleanroom
• Hyperbaric chamber
• Pressure vessel
• Contamination control