How Portable Oxygen Concentrators (POCs) Work?

A Portable Oxygen Concentrator (POC) is a medical device that extracts oxygen from the air, concentrates it, and delivers it to the user at a higher purity level. Unlike traditional oxygen tanks, POCs do not store oxygen but generate it on demand, making them safer, lighter, and more convenient.

Step-by-Step Process: How a POC Generates Oxygen

Step 1: Air Intake & Filtration

• The POC draws in room air through a filter, removing dust and impurities.

Step 2: Compression & Nitrogen Removal

• The compressor increases air pressure.

• The air is passed through sieve beds (zeolite filters), which absorb nitrogen, leaving behind concentrated oxygen (90–95%).

Step 3: Oxygen Collection & Delivery

• The purified oxygen is stored briefly in an internal reservoir.

• The concentrator delivers oxygen to the user via nasal cannulas in one of two ways:
  Pulse Dose Mode – Delivers oxygen only when the user inhales (more efficient, extends battery life).
  Continuous Flow Mode – Provides a steady stream of oxygen, like a traditional oxygen tank (needed for higher oxygen demands).

Step 4: Exhaust & Repeating Cycle

• The sieve beds release trapped nitrogen back into the air.

• The process repeats continuously, ensuring a steady oxygen supply.

Types of Oxygen Flow in POCs

Pulse Dose (On-Demand)

✔ Delivers oxygen only when the user breathes in.
✔ More battery-efficient and lightweight.
✔ Suitable for mild to moderate oxygen needs (COPD, exertion-related hypoxia).

Continuous Flow

✔ Provides a constant stream of oxygen, even when not inhaling.
✔ Used by patients who need higher oxygen flow rates or overnight oxygen therapy.
✔ Requires larger batteries and drains power faster.