Oxygen Cylinder

Description

Oxygen Cylinder

An oxygen cylinder is a storage vessel for oxygen, which is used in various medical and industrial applications. In medical settings, oxygen cylinders are primarily used to provide supplemental oxygen to patients who have respiratory conditions or require additional oxygen to maintain adequate blood oxygen levels.

Features and Functions

1. Cylinder Construction:
   • Typically made from steel or aluminum to withstand high pressures.
   • Designed to hold compressed oxygen at pressures up to 2,000 to 3,000 psi (pounds per square inch).
2. Oxygen Content:
   • Filled with 100% medical-grade oxygen, which is crucial for therapeutic use.
3. Sizes and Capacities:
   • Available in various sizes, ranging from small portable cylinders to larger stationary ones. Common sizes include:
     • D Cylinder: Portable, typically holds around 425 liters of oxygen.
     • E Cylinder: Portable, holds around 680 liters of oxygen.
     • M Cylinder: Larger, holds around 3,000 liters of oxygen, often used in hospital settings.
     • H Cylinder: Even larger, holds about 6,900 liters of oxygen, used in facilities or as backup supplies.
4. Pressure Regulator:
   • Equipped with a pressure regulator to control the flow rate of oxygen delivered to the patient. The flow rate is usually adjustable to meet specific patient needs, ranging from 0.5 to 25 liters per minute.
5. Delivery System:
   • Oxygen is delivered to the patient through a nasal cannula, face mask, or other oxygen delivery devices.
6. Safety Features:
   • Valves and gauges to monitor pressure and ensure safe use.
   • Color-coded green in many countries to indicate medical oxygen (other colors may be used in different regions).

Benefits

• Portability: Smaller cylinders are lightweight and portable, allowing patients to maintain mobility while receiving oxygen therapy.
• Immediate Availability: Provides a reliable and immediate source of oxygen, especially critical in emergency situations.
• Versatility: Can be used in various settings, including homes, hospitals, clinics, and during transport.

Applications

• Medical Use:
  • Respiratory Conditions: For patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), asthma, pneumonia, cystic fibrosis, and other conditions that impair breathing.
  • Emergency Care: For trauma, heart attack, and other emergencies requiring immediate oxygen support.
  • Surgical Procedures: To maintain adequate oxygenation during surgery.
• Industrial Use:
  • Used in welding, cutting, and other industrial processes where high-purity oxygen is required.