Build Your Own DIY Oxygen Concentrator - High Oxygen Concentration!

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. Understanding Oxygen Concentrators
   1. What is an oxygen concentrator?
   2. How does an oxygen concentrator work?
3. Components of an Oxygen Concentrator
   1. Compressor
   2. Cooling Coils
   3. Input Pressure Regulator
   4. Sieves
   5. Surge Tank
   6. Output Flow Meter
   7. Oxygen Meter
4. Operation of an Oxygen Concentrator
   1. The Process of Nitrogen Absorption
   2. Concentration of Oxygen
5. The Role of Electronics in Oxygen Concentrators
   1. Arduino Board
   2. Relay Board
6. Conclusion

Understanding Oxygen Concentrators

An oxygen concentrator is a medical device that helps individuals with respiratory issues by providing them with a continuous supply of concentrated oxygen. It is a crucial medical equipment used in various settings, including hospitals, homecare, and emergency situations. In this article, we will delve deeper into understanding the functioning of oxygen concentrators and explore their components and operation.

What is an oxygen concentrator?

An oxygen concentrator is a device that concentrates ambient air and removes nitrogen, allowing the user to inhale a higher percentage of oxygen. It eliminates the need for traditional oxygen cylinders, which need to be refilled regularly. Oxygen concentrators are portable, efficient, and can deliver oxygen therapy continuously for extended periods.

How does an oxygen concentrator work?

The functioning of an oxygen concentrator revolves around two key processes: compression and filtration. First, the air is compressed using a powerful compressor, typically around two horsepower, to raise its pressure. The compressed air then passes through cooling coils, where it is cooled down using a simple and effective method involving copper coils.

After cooling, the air enters an input pressure regulator, which ensures that the pressure does not exceed a safe level. It is then split into two streams using three-port, two-way valves. These streams enter separate zeolite-filled sieves responsible for nitrogen absorption. The concentrated oxygen is pushed out of the active sieve and split into two directions - one into the surge tank and the other into the sieve being purged.

This process allows the oxygen concentrator to continuously produce enriched oxygen. The equalization valve helps the empty sieve pressurize quickly by utilizing the pressurized oxygen, thus improving nitrogen absorption. The output is stored temporarily in the surge tank before passing through a low-pressure regulator and an output flow meter. The flow meter ensures a steady supply of oxygen, and it is split into two streams for delivery to a mask and an oxygen meter for monitoring purposes.

In conclusion, oxygen concentrators are vital devices that offer a convenient and efficient way of providing continuous oxygen therapy to individuals with respiratory conditions. By understanding their components and operation, we can appreciate the importance of these devices in improving the quality of life for those in need.