If a gauge shows 350 kPa, what is the absolute pressure?

To determine the absolute pressure from a gauge pressure reading, it is essential to understand the relationship between gauge pressure and absolute pressure. Gauge pressure measures the pressure relative to atmospheric pressure, while absolute pressure measures pressure relative to a complete vacuum.

In this case, a gauge reading of 350 kPa represents the pressure above atmospheric pressure. To obtain the absolute pressure, you must add the atmospheric pressure, which is typically around 101.3 kPa at sea level, to the gauge pressure.

Calculating this, we would have:

350 kPa (gauge pressure) + 101.3 kPa (atmospheric pressure) = 451.3 kPa.

Rounding this to the nearest whole number gives us 451 kPa, confirming that this is indeed the absolute pressure.

This understanding is crucial for various applications in the ice facility context, as accurate pressure readings are vital for operational efficiency, safety, and performance of refrigeration systems and other equipment.