An oxygen concentrator uses a process called pressure swing adsorption (PSA) to separate the oxygen from other gases in the air. Here’s a simplified breakdown of the process:
Air Intake: Air is drawn into the concentrator through a filter.
Sieve Beds: The air passes through two zeolite beds (zeolite is a mineral that acts like a sieve).
Oxygen Absorption: One zeolite bed adsorbs nitrogen and other gases, while allowing oxygen to pass through.
Oxygen Delivery: The concentrated oxygen is delivered to the patient through a nasal cannula or mask.
Pressure Swing: The pressure in the beds is then cycled to release the adsorbed nitrogen from the first bed, allowing it to regenerate for the next cycle.
Last updated 04/06/2020