Oxygen Concentrator Machine- Overview, Uses, Working and How to Choose

An oxygen concentrator can be used to provide supplemental oxygen to people who have been prescribed oxygen therapy. The appropriate device depends on the person's medical requirement and the prescribed oxygen flow.

• An oxygen concentrator extracts and concentrates oxygen from room air
• Oxygen is generally delivered through a nasal cannula or mask
• Concentrators are available in stationary and portable forms
• The required oxygen flow should be determined by a healthcare professional
• An oxygen concentrator needs a suitable power source to operate

Understanding how an oxygen concentrator works and how it should be used can help patients and caregivers operate the device more safely.

Last updated: September 2026

An oxygen concentrator uses a process that separates oxygen from other gases present in room air.

The basic process is:

1. Air intake: The machine draws surrounding air into the unit.
2. Filtration: Filters remove dust and other particles from the incoming air.
3. Compression: The air is compressed inside the machine.
4. Nitrogen separation: Molecular sieve material selectively adsorbs nitrogen.
5. Oxygen concentration: Oxygen passes through while much of the nitrogen is separated.
6. Oxygen delivery: The concentrated oxygen is delivered through the outlet to the patient.
7. Continuous operation: In many stationary models, the process repeats continuously while the machine is operating.

Modern concentrators commonly use Pressure Swing Adsorption (PSA) technology.

Oxygen concentrators are broadly available in stationary and portable forms.

Not every patient can use a pulse-dose device. The device must be compatible with the person's breathing pattern and prescribed therapy.

Both can provide supplemental oxygen, but they operate differently.

An oxygen concentrator can therefore be useful for people who require oxygen for extended periods, but a suitable backup plan may be important because the device depends on power and functioning equipment.

Choosing an oxygen concentrator involves more than checking its oxygen output. Consider the following factors:

The prescribed oxygen flow and delivery mode should take priority over convenience features.

1. Oxygen Flow Rate:

   Check whether the device offers the required flow rate (liters per minute) as prescribed by your healthcare provider.

   
   

2. Type of Concentrator:

   Choose between portable and stationary models based on mobility needs and therapy duration.

   
   

3. Noise Levels:

   Opt for a device with low operational noise, especially for home use during sleep hours.

   
   

4. Power Source and Battery Backup:

   Ensure the concentrator has a reliable power source and sufficient battery life for uninterrupted operation during outages.

   
   

5. Portability:

   For active users, consider lightweight, compact models that are easy to carry.

   
   

6. Maintenance Requirements:

   Verify the ease of cleaning filters and accessing spare parts for long-term upkeep.

   
   

7. Oxygen Purity:

   Ensure the device maintains oxygen purity levels of at least 90-95%, even at maximum flow.

   
   

8. Warranty and Support:

   Look for products with a comprehensive warranty and accessible customer support.

Medical equipment finance can help you purchase an oxygen concentrator machine without paying the entire cost upfront. Depending on the lender and your eligibility, you may be able to finance the purchase through a medical equipment loan or other healthcare financing option. Before choosing medical equipment finance, consider the loan amount, interest rate, repayment tenure, processing fees and other applicable charges. Also ensure that the oxygen concentrator you purchase meets the specifications recommended by your healthcare professional.

Bajaj Finance offers medical equipment finance to help eligible customers manage the cost of purchasing essential medical equipment. Financing can help spread the purchase cost into manageable instalments, subject to applicable eligibility criteria, loan terms and conditions. Customers can review the available financing options and select a repayment plan based on their requirements and financial capacity.