An oxygen concentrator is a medical device that provides supplemental or extra oxygen to people with breathing-related disorders. It works by concentrating the oxygen from ambient air (which contains about 21% oxygen) and delivering a higher concentration of oxygen (typically 90% or more) to the patient.
💡 How It Works:
- Air Intake: The concentrator draws in air from the surroundings.
- Filtration & Compression: The air is filtered and compressed.
- Nitrogen Separation: A sieve bed (usually made of zeolite) separates nitrogen from oxygen.
- Oxygen Delivery: The concentrated oxygen is then delivered to the user via a nasal cannula or oxygen mask.
🌟 Key Features of an Oxygen Concentrator:
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Oxygen Purity | Usually delivers 90–95% pure oxygen. |
| Flow Rate | Adjustable flow rate (measured in liters per minute or LPM). Common range: 1–5 LPM for home units, up to 10 LPM for high-flow models. |
| Continuous vs. Pulse Flow | Some devices offer continuous flow, others provide pulse dose (oxygen is delivered only during inhalation). |
| Portability | Comes in stationary (home) and portable models (battery-operated, lightweight). |
| Power Source | Operates on AC (and sometimes DC) power. Portable models include rechargeable batteries. |
| Noise Level | Quieter models are available for home or nighttime use. |
| Display & Controls | Many feature digital displays showing oxygen level, flow rate, alarms, and battery status. |
| Alarms & Safety | Alerts for power failure, low oxygen purity, or system malfunction. |
| Filters | Replaceable or cleanable air filters to ensure air quality and device longevity. |
✅ Benefits:
- Provides critical oxygen support for people with COPD, COVID-19, asthma, or other respiratory issues.
- Safer and more convenient than oxygen cylinders (no refilling needed).
- Lower long-term cost and less risk of leakage or explosion.
