How To Choose Between Continuous Flow Oxygen Concentrator And Pulse Oxygen Concentrator
RESPIREASY oxygen concentrator purchase guide: Continuous flow and pulse, how to choose?
At a time when health awareness is increasing, RESPIREASY oxygen concentrators have gradually entered people's lives, bringing convenience to people who need oxygen. However, facing the dazzling array of oxygen concentrator products on the market, especially DC oxygen concentrators and pulse oxygen concentrators, how to choose has become a headache for many people. The following is a detailed analysis of the difference between the two to help you make the right choice.
Portable Continuous Flow Mini Oxygen Concentrator
Portable Pulse Mini Oxygen Therapy Oxygen Concentrator
Home Oxygen Therapy Oxygen Concentrator
Home Medical Oxygen Therapy Oxygen Concentrator
DEDAKJ Oxygen Concentrator Accessories
1. The working principle is revealed
DC oxygen concentrator
Continuous flow oxygen concentrators are based on PSA (molecular sieve pressure swing adsorption) technology and usually adopt a double adsorption tower circulation working mode. In an adsorption tower, when air is compressed and passes through the molecular sieve, nitrogen is adsorbed by the molecular sieve, while oxygen passes through the molecular sieve to form a high concentration of oxygen because the molecular sieve has a stronger adsorption force on nitrogen and other gas molecules than oxygen; at the same time, the other adsorption tower is in the decompression desorption stage, and the previously adsorbed nitrogen is released by reducing the pressure or vacuuming, thereby completing the regeneration of the molecular sieve. The two adsorption towers are periodically switched through an automated control system to ensure the continuous supply of oxygen and provide users with a stable and uninterrupted oxygen flow.
Pulse oxygen generator
The pulse oxygen generator, which is also based on PSA technology, has a built-in sensor that can monitor the user's respiratory pressure and respiratory rate. When the user inhales, the sensor captures the signal, and the oxygen generator accurately releases oxygen; when exhaling, it stops supplying oxygen. This "oxygen on demand" method greatly improves the oxygen utilization rate.
2. Practical performance comparison
Oxygen supply method
Continuous flow oxygen concentrator outputs oxygen continuously and steadily, like a trickle, always maintaining oxygen supply; pulse oxygen concentrator provides oxygen intermittently, according to the user's breathing rhythm, outputs high-concentration oxygen at the moment of inhalation, like a rhythmic drum beat, accurately matching breathing needs.
Oxygen utilization rate
Pulse oxygen concentrator performs well in oxygen utilization rate. It only supplies oxygen during inhalation, avoiding oxygen waste during exhalation, and the utilization rate can be as high as 99%. Due to the continuous output of oxygen, the Continuous flow oxygen concentrator will have a certain degree of waste during the exhalation stage, and the actual oxygen utilization rate is about 20%-30%. For example, for the same 5-liter flow rate oxygen concentrator, the amount of oxygen actually effectively used by the human body in the pulse oxygen concentrator may be equivalent to the effective oxygen supply of the Continuous flow oxygen concentrator at a higher flow rate.
Battery life (for portable)
For portable oxygen concentrators, battery life is crucial. Because of its energy-saving oxygen supply mode, the pulse oxygen concentrator has a significantly better battery life than the DC oxygen concentrator at the same battery capacity. For example, some portable oxygen concentrators that use pulse oxygen supply mode have built-in high-capacity lithium batteries that can support a battery life of several hours to more than ten hours (depending on the flow setting). Some models also support vehicle power or backup battery expansion; while the Continuous flow oxygen concentrator continuously consumes power, has high battery requirements, and has a relatively short battery life.
Wearing comfort
The pulse oxygen concentrator is more in line with the breathing rhythm, and the user often feels more comfortable when wearing it, reducing the stimulation of the airflow to the nasal cavity; if the oxygen flow of the Continuous flow oxygen concentrator is not adjusted properly, it may cause the user to feel a large airflow resistance when exhaling, affecting the comfort, but its smooth airflow also makes some users feel easier to adapt.
Equipment size and portability
Pulse oxygen concentrators are generally smaller and lighter, weighing usually between 1.5 and 5 kg. Some are also equipped with straps or rollers for easy carrying, suitable for outdoor activities, travel and other scenes; Continuous flow oxygen concentrators may be relatively large and heavy due to the need to ensure a continuous and stable oxygen supply, and are less portable, and are more suitable for use in fixed places.
3. Applicable population analysis
Pulse oxygen concentrator
Suitable for patients who do not have a very high demand for oxygen, have a large amount of activity or need to wear it for a long time, such as patients in the stable stage of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. It is also suitable for short-term oxygen supplementation for healthy people when traveling in air pollution, confined spaces or plateaus. For example, in plateau areas, it can help prevent acute altitude sickness and maintain blood oxygen saturation above 90%. At the same time, for athletes in sports rehabilitation, using it after high-intensity training can accelerate recovery.
Continuous flow oxygen concentrator
It is more suitable for patients with severe conditions, greater oxygen demand and relatively quiet rest. For example, patients with severe cardiopulmonary diseases need continuous high-concentration oxygen support to maintain vital signs. In addition, Continuous flow oxygen concentrators are also a better choice for people who need long-term uninterrupted oxygen inhalation to improve physical function.
IV. Purchase tips
1. Clarify the use needs: According to your own or the user's health status, activity needs, etc., judge whether you need a continuous and stable oxygen supply, or you value portability and energy-saving pulse oxygen supply.
2. Pay attention to oxygen concentration and flow: give priority to oxygen concentrators with oxygen concentration ≥90%; for pulse oxygen concentrators, pay attention to the equivalent flow of its pulse mode, and try to choose medical-grade equipment with an equivalent flow ≥3L/min; Continuous flow oxygen concentrators choose appropriate flow specifications according to actual needs.
3. Consider battery life (portable): If you choose a portable oxygen concentrator, estimate the required battery life according to the usage scenario, and choose a product with a suitable battery capacity. If you need to be outdoors for a long time, you can consider equipping it with an extended battery.
4. Pay attention to noise and weight: In home scenarios, excessive noise will affect life and rest. Try to choose an oxygen concentrator with an operating noise of <45 decibels; if you often need to carry it out, the weight of the equipment is an important consideration, and you should focus on lightweight (<3 kg) products.
5. Check the brand and after-sales service: Choose a well-known brand, its product quality and performance are more guaranteed, and the perfect after-sales service can make subsequent use worry-free, such as whether there is professional installation guidance, maintenance service and accessories supply.
Summary:
In short, Continuous flow oxygen concentrators and pulse oxygen concentrators have their own advantages and disadvantages, and there is no absolute good or bad. When choosing, you must fully understand your own needs, weigh various factors comprehensively, and consult a doctor's professional opinion if necessary, so that you can choose the most suitable oxygen concentrator for your health.