Compressed air at high pressure can cause frostbite?

Thread starter wils0645
Start date Dec 9, 2008
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Air Cause Compressed Compressed air High pressure Pressure

AI Thread Summary

Compressed air can indeed cause frostbite due to the Joule-Thomson effect, where expanding air cools significantly. A substantial pressure difference can lead to a pronounced cooling effect, resulting in ice formation, as observed with CO2 fire extinguishers. This phenomenon occurs because the rapid expansion of compressed air lowers its temperature, potentially leading to skin damage. Users should be cautious when handling compressed air at high pressures to avoid frostbite. Understanding these risks is essential for safe usage.

Dec 9, 2008

wils0645

Is it possible to get frostbite from compressed air? How does this happen?

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Dec 9, 2008

mgb_phys

Science Advisor

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The expanding air cools ( Joule-Thomson effect)
If you have a big pressure difference the cooling effect can be very large - you get ice forming even on a CO2 fire extinguisher.

Dec 9, 2008

wils0645

Thanks, I appreciate it. I was curious.

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