Thread by @NewsBytesApp

As India faces a shortage of hospital beds amid a record surge in coronavirus infections, several infected people have had to seek treatment at home. Shortage of oxygen cylinders has given rise to increasing sale of oxygen concentrators. But what are they?
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An oxygen concentrator uses ambient air to concentrate oxygen. It can dispense 90-95% pure oxygen by compressing it from atmospheric air, which comprises 21% oxygen and 78% nitrogen. The air is filtered through a sieve, and then the nitrogen is released back into the air. #Oxygen

The oxygen is concentrated inside the device and a pressure valve helps regulate the supply, ranging from 1-10L/min. Experts say, 90-95% pure oxygen generated by oxygen concentrators is good enough for mild and moderate COVID-19 patients with oxygen saturation levels above 85%.

But, this oxygen is not advisable for ICU patients, who benefit from 99% Liquid Medical Oxygen (LMO). Further, concentrators can be attached to multiple tubes to serve two patients; this may raise the risk of cross-infection. #OxygenCrisis #Oxygen #Corona2ndWave #IndiaFightsBack

Unlike oxygen cylinders, that need to be stored and transported in cryogenic tankers, oxygen concentrators are portable and need no special temperature. Cylinders also require refilling, however, concentrators only need a power source to function. #OxygenEmergency #coronavirus

Concentrators can supply 5-10 liters of oxygen per minute and are hence, not suited for critical patients, who may need 40-50 liters per minute. Notably, concentrators cost around Rs. 40,000-90,000 and are more expensive than cylinders (Rs. 8,000-20,000). #Oxygen #OxygenCrisis

But, concentrators are mostly a one-time investment, with little operational cost apart from electricity and routine maintenance. Cylinders, meanwhile, involve refilling costs and transportation. Concentrators can produce oxygen 24hrs a day, 7 days a week, for up to 5yrs or more.