Temperature and pressure tightness
Influence of temperature differences on pressure tightness
Temperature differences pose a particular challenge for the pressure-tightness of our vehicle windows and doors. While the materials perform well under moderate conditions, extreme heat or cold can lead to expansion, contraction, material fatigue or even damage. Choosing the right materials that are designed to withstand temperature, as well as regular maintenance and testing, is therefore crucial to ensure long-term pressure tightness - whether on roads, railways or waterways.
Cleff therefore relies on highly developed materials and customised designs to meet these challenges and ensure pressure tightness even under extreme conditions.
There are various aspects through which temperature changes can endanger pressure tightness:
• Material expansion and contraction
Many sealing materials, such as rubber or elastomers, react to temperature changes by expanding or contracting. At high temperatures, the seals expand, which can increase their flexibility, but can also mean that they no longer fit optimally in their sockets. Conversely, low temperatures can cause gaskets to become harder and less flexible, making them less effective at sealing. These material changes can cause gaps or cracks through which air or water can penetrate.
• Change in sealing performance
High temperatures also accelerate the ageing and wear of materials such as rubber, which reduces pressure tightness in the long term. Low temperatures, on the other hand, make many sealing materials brittle, which can lead to cracks or fractures. Particularly in the case of sudden temperature drops, as occur in cold climates, this can quickly damage the seals and thus greatly reduce the pressure tightness.
• Thermal stress on window frames and door frames
The frame materials in which windows and doors are installed are also affected by temperature changes. Materials such as metal or plastic expand when hot and contract when cold. If these expansions and contractions are not uniform - for example because the frame and seals are made of different materials - this can lead to ‘thermal stress’. This leads to tension in the material, which can result in deformation or cracks in the long term, which impairs the pressure tightness.
• Condensation and moisture formation
Another problem that can arise due to temperature differences is condensation. If the temperature on one side of the window or door differs significantly from the other side, moisture can settle on the colder surfaces. This moisture can attack the materials and lead to deterioration of the seals. This is a particularly common effect on ships, i.e. in humid environments, or on trains travelling through tunnels with different air temperatures.
• Ageing and maintenance requirements
Extreme temperature fluctuations accelerate the ageing process of the seals and the window or door frames. The seals must therefore be checked and maintained regularly to ensure that they retain their elasticity and functionality. Maintenance schedules are therefore adapted to the vehicle's operating conditions to ensure that pressure tightness is maintained even in changing temperatures.
