How an Oxygen Concentrator Works: A Detailed Guide

Oxygen concentrators (also known as oxygen generators) are medical devices used in oxygen therapy to help individuals with breathing difficulties or lung conditions receive the necessary oxygen. Unlike oxygen tanks that require refilling or replacement, an oxygen concentrator continuously filters and purifies the surrounding air, delivering 90% to 95% pure oxygen. You can breathe in this oxygen either through a mask that covers your mouth and nose or a nasal cannula with prongs that fit into your nostrils.

Key Components of an Oxygen Concentrator

Oxygen concentrators consist of several key components, each playing a vital role in ensuring efficient oxygen delivery.

• Cannula: A thin tube inserted into the nose that delivers oxygen, with the other end connected to the oxygen concentrator.
• Tubing: Soft plastic tubing that connects the cannula or mask to the concentrator, allowing oxygen flow.
• Motor Mounts: Metal components that withstand the forces and vibrations from the motor. Rubber dampens the vibrations, and issues with motor mounts are typically easy to identify and repair.
• Compressors: Contain two cylinders filled with zeolite pellets, a pressure reservoir, valves, and tubes. They increase air pressure to allow airflow settings to be adjusted.
• Humidifier Bottles: Attach to the concentrator to moisten and warm the oxygen by mixing it with water.
• Capacitors: Store and release electrical energy, functioning similarly to batteries, with two conductors separated by an insulator.
• Cooling Fan: Two types—AC and DC axial fans. DC fans have a longer lifespan and are cost-effective, while AC fans offer quick directional changes. Both consist of motors and bearings.
• Power Button: Typically illuminated, indicating whether the machine is on or off.
• Gross-Particle Air Filter: A mesh or sponge-like filter that ensures clean air intake. Ambient air passes through this filter to separate nitrogen before further refinement.

How Does an Oxygen Concentrator Work?

Air composition consists mainly of two gases: Nitrogen (78%) and Oxygen (21%), with the remaining 1% made up of other gases such as Carbon Dioxide and Argon. By removing the Nitrogen, the remaining air consists of 90-95% pure Oxygen. Oxygen concentrators use this principle, operating on the basic concept of Pressure Swing Adsorption (PSA) to produce oxygen at a concentration of 90-95%.

Air Intake

Ambient air is drawn into the machine by a compressor, passing through filters to remove impurities.

Molecular Sieve Beds

The compressed air enters the first molecular sieve bed, where Nitrogen is adsorbed, leaving behind Oxygen with a purity of up to 95%. The sieve bed becomes saturated with Nitrogen at about 20 psi pressure.

Switch Valve Activation

Just before the first sieve bed reaches saturation, a switch valve activates and redirects the compressed air to the second molecular sieve bed. Meanwhile, the Nitrogen in the first bed is vented out. Any remaining Nitrogen is flushed out using Oxygen from the second sieve bed.

Back to First Sieve Bed

As the second sieve bed becomes saturated, the switch valve redirects airflow back to the first sieve bed, and the process repeats to maintain a continuous flow of oxygen.

This cycle of switching between the two sieve beds ensures the continuous delivery of Oxygen. The oxygen output is regulated by a flowmeter, allowing for manual adjustment in Litres Per Minute (LPM). The oxygen is then delivered through an outlet to an oxygen delivery system such as a nasal cannula or mask, often with a humidifier to ensure comfort.

Benefits of Using an Oxygen Concentrator

Oxygen concentrators primarily help make breathing easier. While they may not fully eliminate shortness of breath or cure underlying conditions, they can significantly improve ease of breathing. Higher oxygen levels in the blood can also boost energy and enhance sleep quality.

A key advantage of oxygen concentrators over traditional oxygen tanks is that they don’t require refilling. As long as there’s a reliable power source, you’ll have an uninterrupted supply of oxygen.

Dr. Diaz Oxygen Concentrators provide an effective solution for individuals requiring supplemental oxygen. They improve breathing, increase energy levels, and promote better sleep without the need for constant refilling, offering a continuous oxygen supply as long as there is power. While not a cure for respiratory conditions, they are a valuable tool in managing symptoms and enhancing the quality of life for patients.