portable Oxygen Concentrators (POCs)
FreeStyle Comfort
Portable Oxygen Concentrator
Expand your comfort zone with this innovative and powerful device. Its lightweight, curved design hugs your body, so you’ll hardly know it’s there. It has the power to let you stay out all day long with greater flexibility to increase flow rates as your prescription changes. Patented smart oxygen delivery features ensure you get the oxygen you need,
Eclipse 5
Hybrid Oxygen Concentrator
The Eclipse 5 is suitable for both portable and stationary use, combining portability with clinical efficiency to treat a wide variety of your needs – giving you the freedom to travel and enjoy life on the go. Suitable for use 24/7 use, this all-in-one oxygen therapy device can provide continuous flow from 0.5 to 3 LPM (Litres Per Minute) and pulse doses up to a setting of 9.
SUMMARY
Portable Oxygen Concentrators (POCs) are lightweight, compact devices designed to provide supplemental oxygen for individuals who require oxygen therapy, particularly while on the move. POCs function on the principle of Pressure Swing Adsorption, drawing in ambient air, compressing it, and filtering out nitrogen to deliver oxygen concentrations up to 90%.
Key features of POCs include their portable design, battery operation, and the option of pulse dose and/or continuous flow oxygen delivery. Many POCs are also FAA approved for use on commercial flights. When selecting a POC, it’s important to consider factors such as oxygen delivery needs, device weight and size, battery life, noise level, and ease of use. At Oxygen West, we’re committed to helping you find the most suitable portable oxygen concentrator for your specific requirements and lifestyle.
Detailed
A Home Oxygen Concentrator (HOC) is a medical device designed to deliver supplemental oxygen to individuals who require a higher concentration of oxygen than the ambient air provides. These devices are typically used by patients with chronic respiratory illnesses or those who require continuous oxygen therapy.
How Does a Portable Oxygen Concentrator Work?
Like their home-based counterparts, POCs work on the principle of Pressure Swing Adsorption (PSA). Here’s a detailed breakdown of the process:
Air Intake
The POC draws in ambient air that is a mixture of 21% oxygen and 78% nitrogen, along with trace amounts of other gases.
Air Compression
This air is then compressed to decrease its volume and increase its pressure. Compressed air is rich in oxygen, nitrogen, and other trace gases.
Nitrogen Removal
The purified, high-concentration oxygen is then delivered to the user via a nasal cannula or oxygen mask. The flow rate (measured in litres per minute) can be adjusted as per the patient’s medical prescription.
Oxygen Delivery
The oxygen, which now comprises up to 90-95% of the total gas volume, is then delivered to the user through a nasal cannula or oxygen mask. The device allows the flow rate to be adjusted as per the user’s medical requirements.
Key Features of
Portable Oxygen Concentrators
Compact Size and Lightweight:
POCs are designed to be carried around. They’re small, lightweight, and often come with a carrying case or are designed to be wheeled.
Battery Operated:
POCs run on rechargeable batteries, allowing users the freedom to travel without worrying about a power source. Many also come with car adapters.
Pulse Dose and/or Continuous Flow:
Some POCs offer a “pulse dose” delivery system that supplies oxygen only when the user inhales. Others provide continuous flow oxygen, and many advanced models offer both options.
FAA Approved:
Many POCs are Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) approved, meaning they can be used on commercial flights.
Oxygen Concentration:
Although not as high as home units, POCs can deliver an oxygen concentration up to 90%.
Choosing the Right
PORTABLE OXYGEN CONCENTRATOR
Selecting a suitable POC depends on the user’s specific medical requirements and lifestyle needs. Considerations include:
Oxygen Delivery:
Whether the user needs continuous flow, pulse dose, or both can influence the choice of the device.
Weight and Size:
Since POCs are designed for mobility, the lighter and more compact, the better.
Battery Life:
Consider the average time the device can operate on battery power and how quickly it recharges.
Noise Level:
Some POCs operate more quietly than others, which might be a critical factor for some users.
Ease of Use:
The device’s controls should be user-friendly, with clear display screens and easy-to-understand settings.
Our team at Oxygen West is experienced in guiding you to the best portable oxygen concentrator suited to your specific needs, providing in-depth consultation and support throughout your journey to better breathing.
