Air pressure on planes and leak-proof containers....

In summary, there is a problem with containers or bags leaking or exploding due to changes in air pressure on airplanes. One solution is to squeeze out as much air as possible from the containers or to transfer the contents into smaller containers. Another option is to use a larger, heavy-walled, and sealed container to hold the smaller containers. A patented pressure-tight travel container may also be available for consumers. This information was found through a Google search for leak-proof travel containers for high altitude. Additionally, it is important to consider the amount of energy stored under atmospheric pressure and how it differs between liquids and gases. Testing for this issue is typically done with diving bottles filled with water.
  • #1
nicoleyounger
On airplanes - do you know of a container or bag that will stops individual bottles with liquid from leaking/ exploding from the changes in air pressure?
 
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  • #2
nicoleyounger said:
On airplanes - do you know of a container or bag that will stops individual bottles with liquid from leaking/ exploding from the changes in air pressure?
The problem is that gas within the container expands as external air pressure decreases. If the container can't withstand the resulting forces it blows apart, or splits enough to allow internal pressure to match external pressure (and in the process creating a leak). One way to fight this is squeeze out as much air as possible from each container before packing them, or transfer the contents into smaller containers than can be fully filled.

Another is to put the containers prone to failure into a larger, heavy walled, and sealed container. I didn't track this down to see if this became a marketed product, but a pressure tight travel container intended for consumer use has been patented.
https://www.google.com/patents/US5806708
 
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  • #3
Asymptotic said:
The problem is that gas within the container expands as external air pressure decreases. If the container can't withstand the resulting forces it blows apart, or splits enough to allow internal pressure to match external pressure (and in the process creating a leak). One way to fight this is squeeze out as much air as possible from each container before packing them, or transfer the contents into smaller containers than can be fully filled.

Another is to put the containers prone to failure into a larger, heavy walled, and sealed container. I didn't track this down to see if this became a marketed product, but a pressure tight travel container intended for consumer use has been patented.
https://www.google.com/patents/US5806708
This is really helpful especially the link to patent - thank you very much for taking the time to respond.
 
  • #4
nicoleyounger said:
This is really helpful especially the link to patent - thank you very much for taking the time to respond.
Can I ask how you found the patent - did you do a google search or had you heard about this invention?
 
  • #5
nicoleyounger said:
On airplanes - do you know of a container or bag that will stops individual bottles with liquid from leaking/ exploding from the changes in air pressure?
Probably not, but if you squeeze the air out of the containers before the flight, they won't pressurize.
 
  • #6
nicoleyounger said:
Can I ask how you found the patent - did you do a google search or had you heard about this invention?
Yep, a Google search for leak proof travel containers "high altitude".
 
  • #7
Asymptotic said:
Yep, a Google search for leak proof travel containers "high altitude".
Thanks
 
  • #8
russ_watters said:
Probably not, but if you squeeze the air out of the containers before the flight, they won't pressurize.
It's a matter of how much energy is stored under Atmospheric Pressure. Both a liquid and a gas will 'pressurise' but because the volume change is so small, the stored energy is different in a liquid.
E = PΔv
Testing diving bottles is always done by pumping them full of water and seeing how much they expand. They can be pressurised with a couple of strokes of simple hand pump. If they burst or split with water in them they will just open up a bit and the pressure returns to ambient. When full of air, they were pressured by running the (~5kW) compressor for several minutes and all that energy comes out at once (a bomb).
 
  • #9
sophiecentaur said:
It's a matter of how much energy is stored under Atmospheric Pressure. Both a liquid and a gas will 'pressurise' but because the volume change is so small, the stored energy is different in a liquid.
E = PΔv
Testing diving bottles is always done by pumping them full of water and seeing how much they expand. They can be pressurised with a couple of strokes of simple hand pump. If they burst or split with water in them they will just open up a bit and the pressure returns to ambient. When full of air, they were pressured by running the (~5kW) compressor for several minutes and all that energy comes out at once (a bomb).
Thank you for taking the time to respond.
 
  • #10
sophiecentaur said:
It's a matter of how much energy is stored under Atmospheric Pressure. Both a liquid and a gas will 'pressurise' but because the volume change is so small, the stored energy is different in a liquid.
E = PΔv
Testing diving bottles is always done by pumping them full of water and seeing how much they expand. They can be pressurised with a couple of strokes of simple hand pump. If they burst or split with water in them they will just open up a bit and the pressure returns to ambient. When full of air, they were pressured by running the (~5kW) compressor for several minutes and all that energy comes out at once (a bomb).
Thanks for taking the time to respond.
 

1. How does air pressure affect the flight of a plane?

Air pressure plays a crucial role in the flight of a plane. As the plane climbs higher, the air pressure decreases, making it harder for the engines to generate thrust. This is why planes are designed to have a specific air pressure inside the cabin to ensure safe and comfortable flying conditions for passengers.

2. Why do we have to adjust our ears during takeoff and landing on a plane?

During takeoff and landing, the change in altitude causes a rapid change in air pressure. This difference in pressure can cause discomfort in our ears, similar to the feeling of popping or pressure in our ears when driving up a mountain. To equalize the pressure, we can swallow, yawn, or chew gum to open the Eustachian tube and allow air to flow into the middle ear.

3. How do leak-proof containers work on a plane?

Leak-proof containers work by maintaining a constant air pressure inside the container, regardless of changes in the outside air pressure. This is achieved through the use of airtight seals and flexible materials that can expand or contract with changes in pressure. This prevents any leaks or spills from occurring during the flight.

4. Can air pressure on a plane cause health issues?

In general, the air pressure inside a commercial airplane is kept at a safe level for passengers. However, individuals with certain medical conditions, such as heart or lung problems, may experience discomfort or other health issues due to the change in air pressure. It is recommended to consult with a doctor before flying if you have any concerns.

5. How is air pressure measured on a plane?

Air pressure is measured using an instrument called an altimeter. This device measures atmospheric pressure and converts it into altitude. Pilots use this information to determine their altitude and ensure they are flying at the correct level. The air pressure inside the cabin is also monitored and adjusted by the aircraft's pressurization system to maintain a safe and comfortable environment for passengers.

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