Oxygen Concentrator Question

[stefanie]

Does anyone know what the percentage of oxygen is needed for a concentrator? Is it the same percentage for medical use? I have someone looking at my old unit and I was asked the question but didn't know. Does this even make sense? LOL!!!!

Thanks!!!!!
Stef

[Alaska]

Your best bet is to look for a manual and see what the specifications are for your machine. Generally 100% is the goal. With a concentrator, the output percent will depend on LPM. i.e. the higher the LPM output the lower the percent of oxygen output.

The below specifications are for a AirSep 5 LPM machine.

AirSep NewLife Oxygen Concentration Specifications

Liter --- Flow Specification --- In Spec
1–3 --- lpm 95% + 0.5/- 3% --- 92% or higher
4 --- lpm 92% + 3.5/ - 3% --- 89% or higher
5 --- lpm 90% + 5.5/ - 3% --- 87% or higher

With a flow meter and a oxygen meter an accurate reading can be obtained if testing is desired.

Without the unit being tested it would NOT be suitable for medical use. Only for lampworking purposes.

[stefanie]

Thank you! This is very helpful info!!!!

[CrassGlass]

If you're referring to the amount of oxygen versus other gases in a concentrator's output, I believe 90% is the minimum amount that a Homefill considers adequate for medical oxygen. The concentrators lampworkers use are essentially the same medical devices, sometimes altered a bit, but we still need a high percentage of oxygen for output. Have you ever tried sending oxygen from your concentrator directly to your torch without letting the concentrator warm up? It blows the flame out because there's insufficient oxygen in the gas output.

[stefanie]

Thank you for your response!!!! Great info!!!!