The discussion centers on the potential for a leaking argon gas line to draw in air, creating a mixture of argon and air during the operation of a VIM melting chamber. Participants explore the implications of pressure dynamics, vacuum integrity, and leak detection methods in this context.
Participants express differing views on whether a leak would draw in air, with some suggesting it would and others arguing against it based on pressure dynamics. The discussion remains unresolved regarding the effectiveness of current leak detection methods and the implications for the final product.
Participants mention specific vacuum levels and leak rates, indicating that assumptions about system integrity and the behavior of gases under pressure may vary. The discussion does not resolve the conditions under which air might be drawn in or the reliability of the leak detection methods employed.
Is the argon under pressure as in mig welding systems or is it drawn into the chamber by the vacuum?Bladestein said:gas is turned on and flowing through pipe
Air has been purged from the system in theory. System pulls vacuum to remove air then back filled with argon. But when backfilling is air being pulled in also.jerromyjon said:If the pressure is considerably higher than atmospheric pressure I can't image it would draw in air, but according to the Bernoulli principle the higher velocity of the flow the lower the pressure that accompanies it, so the flow rate and the pressure have to be considered. Can we assume the air has been purged from the system initially?
Yes that would definitely drawn in air if there is a leak, and argon molecules are larger so they might not leak out when the system is pressurized.Bladestein said:But when backfilling is air being pulled in also.