Christian Provost

By: Christian Provost

|

Mar 19, 2023

An oxygen flowmeter is a medical device that measures the rate at which oxygen is being delivered to a patient from an oxygen source. The flowmeter is a critical component of oxygen delivery systems, ensuring that the appropriate amount of oxygen is being delivered to the patient at all times.

The basic design of an oxygen flowmeter consists of a calibrated tube, typically made of glass or plastic, with flow rate graduations marked along the length of the tube. Oxygen flows through the tube, and the flow rate is measured by the position of a float or ball within the tube. The flow rate graduations on the tube allow medical professionals to adjust the oxygen flow to the appropriate level for the patient’s needs.

Analog flowmeters use a float mechanism to measure the oxygen flow rate. The float is typically made of a lightweight material such as plastic or metal and is designed to rise or fall depending on the rate of oxygen flow. As the float moves, it indicates the flow rate on the calibrated tube. The float is often shaped like a small ball, which allows it to move easily through the tube without getting stuck.

Digital flowmeters use electronic sensors to measure the oxygen flow rate. The sensors are typically located in the body of the flowmeter and use various technologies such as ultrasonic or thermal flow sensing to measure the oxygen flow rate. The sensor readings are displayed on a digital readout, which allows medical professionals to adjust the oxygen flow rate more precisely than with an analog flowmeter.

Oxygen flowmeters are available in different flow rate ranges, from as low as 0-0.25 liters per minute (LPM) to as high as 25 LPM or more. The appropriate flow rate range depends on the patient’s needs and the oxygen delivery system being used. For example, a patient with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) may require a flow rate of 1-3 LPM, while a patient undergoing surgery may require a flow rate of 8-10 LPM.

It is important to note that oxygen flowmeters should be used only by trained medical professionals. Incorrect use or calibration of a flowmeter can result in incorrect oxygen delivery, which can be harmful or even life-threatening to the patient. Regular maintenance and calibration of flowmeters are essential to ensure accurate readings and proper oxygen delivery.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, MTS has various partnerships with a number of medical gas installation contractors. Each sub contractor employees qualifying ASSE 6010 Medical Gas Installers ready to meet your needs.
A Medical Gas Certification (Also called a medical gas verification) is an NFPA required inspection and approval of newly installed medical gas delivery systems. All newly in installed medical gas pipeline and equipment must be certified by an ASSE 6030 before use.
Answer: Per NFPA guidelines, it is a requirement for any facilities using medical grade gases for the purpose of human consumption to have their gas delivery systems inspected by and ASSE 6040. Read more about Medical Gas Inspections Here.
Answer: Yes, MTS provides annual medical gas inspections. We provide discounts on Annual Inspections when you sign multi year contracts. Read more about Medical Gas Inspections Here.
Answer: The Plumbing and Mechanical Systems Board issues medical gas piping certification to medical gas system installers who possess valid certification from the National Inspection Testing Certification Corporation or NITC. Certification from other organizations may be considered with approval of the board.
Yes, we can adapt any fittings to the desired hosing for any medical grade gas. High pressure gases such as Nitrogen can also be accommodated.
Yes, Those items for shipment to countries outside of the U.S. may be subject to taxes, customs duties and fees levied by the destination country (“Import Fees”). The recipient of the shipment is the importer of record in the destination country and is responsible for all Import Fees.
With respect to each item for which Import Fees have been calculated, you authorize Export or Merchant (as applicable) to designate a carrier (“Designated Carrier”) to act as your agent with the relevant customs and tax authorities in the destination country, to clear your merchandise, process and remit your actual Import Fees for such item.
Import Fees Deposit” represents an estimate of the Import Fees that will be levied on the items in your order for shipment to countries outside of the U.S. By placing your order, you agree to allow Export and/or Merchant (as applicable) to collect the Import Fees Deposit for the applicable items in your order. This deposit will be used, on your behalf, to reimburse the Designated Carriers for the import fees that they have paid on your behalf to the appropriate authorities of the destination country.
Answer: Per NFPA guidelines, it is a requirement for any facilities using medical grade gases for the purpose of human consumption to have their gas delivery systems inspected by and ASSE 6040. Read more about Medical Gas Inspections Here.

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