Understanding the Differences Between Industrial Oxygen and Medical Oxygen
Introduction
Oxygen is a critical element used in various fields, including the medical and industrial sectors. Although it is the same element, there are significant differences in the oxygen used in these industries.
Industrial Oxygen
Industrial oxygen refers to the form of oxygen used in the manufacturing, mining, and welding industries. It is primarily used in processes that require high heat and intense combustion, such as smelting, welding, and cutting. Industrial oxygen is generally produced by distilling air through a process known as the cryogenic distillation of air.
Medical Oxygen
On the other hand, Medical oxygen is used to sustain human life. It is used in hospitals to help patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), pneumonia, and other respiratory conditions breathe properly. This type of oxygen is also used in emergency situations for individuals who experience difficulty breathing. Medical oxygen is produced through a process known as pressure swing absorption (PSA).
Differences
The primary differences between industrial oxygen and medical oxygen are their production processes and purity levels. Medical oxygen needs to meet strict standards of purity that exceed those required for industrial purposes. It must be between 99.5% and 100% pure, free of any contaminants or impurities.
In contrast, industrial oxygen purity standards vary depending on the application. For welding purposes, oxygen purity levels can vary between 99.5% and 99.9%. However, for processes such as metal fabrication, purity levels of 99.99% may be required.
Another significant difference between these two types of oxygen is their intended use. Industrial oxygen is used for various applications that require the use of high temperatures and combustions, meaning it poses a higher risk of fire or explosion. For this reason, it is not suitable for medical use.
Conclusion
In conclusion, oxygen is a critical element used in various industries. However, there are significant differences between industrial oxygen and medical oxygen. Medical oxygen is designed specifically to sustain human life, while industrial oxygen is used in various manufacturing and mining applications. Understanding the differences between these two types of oxygen is crucial in ensuring their safe and appropriate use.
Table difference between industrial oxygen and medical oxygen
| Attribute | Industrial Oxygen | Medical Oxygen |
|---|---|---|
| Uses | Used in various industrial processes like welding, cutting, heating, etc. | Used for medical purposes like resuscitation, therapy, and surgical procedures. |
| Purity | Typically contains up to 99.5% pure oxygen. | Must be 99% pure oxygen, with the remaining 1% being other gases (usually nitrogen or argon) to meet medical standards. |
| Storage | Stored in large tanks in industrial facilities. | Stored in smaller tanks or cylinders in hospitals and medical facilities. |
| Delivery | Delivered by tanker trucks or pipelines to industrial facilities that require it. | Delivered in smaller tanks or cylinders to medical facilities or directly to patients. |
| Special Requirements | No special requirements for using industrial oxygen. | Must meet specific standards for purity and safety set by the medical industry. |