Vacuum resistance depends upon the rupture disk product type and its burst pressure. Most (but not all) rupture disk devices having a burst pressure of 22psi (1.51 Bar) or higher will have an intrinsic ability to resist vacuum. BS&B identifies the vacuum resistance characteristics of each rupture disk type on the product specific web site pages and in downloadable catalogs – please check your application conditions against this data. Vacuum resistance is interpreted to mean the ability to resist a 1 atmosphere negative pressure difference between the inlet and outlet of the rupture disk device.
Forward acting rupture disk types (also called tension loaded) will typically require an additional vacuum support. Composite type forward acting rupture disks will always require a vacuum support when exposed to any negative pressure differential in order to support the internal seal membrane of such multi layered products (refer Type D and Type AV rupture disk catalogs).
A pressure difference higher than 1 atmosphere due to such as back pressure acting upon the outlet of a rupture disk device requires further consideration. All rupture disks are differential pressure sensitive devices. The BS&B Type SKi reverse buckling disk has unique back pressure independence characteristics that can simplify safety system design.