An oxygen concentrator draws in surrounding air and separates much of the nitrogen, leaving oxygen-enriched gas. HIDGEEM oxygen concentrators use molecular sieve technology, a process known as pressure swing adsorption (PSA).
1. Air intake and compression
Air passes through intake filters to remove dust and particles. A compressor then pressurizes the filtered air and directs it into a sieve bed containing zeolite. For a closer look at these components, see our oxygen concentrator parts and maintenance guide.
2. Nitrogen separation with a molecular sieve
Zeolite is a porous material that selectively adsorbs nitrogen under pressure. Nitrogen is held on the material's surface while oxygen-enriched gas passes through. This separation depends on the adsorption properties of the molecular sieve, rather than simply on the size of the gas molecules.
3. Oxygen collection and delivery
The oxygen-enriched gas is collected and delivered through the device's oxygen outlet. Oxygen concentration and delivery settings vary by model, so check the manufacturer's specifications and operating instructions for the selected unit.
4. Pressure release and sieve regeneration
When pressure in the sieve bed is reduced, the trapped nitrogen is released and the zeolite is ready for another cycle. The beds alternate between nitrogen adsorption and regeneration to keep the oxygen concentration process running.
This is a physical separation process: the concentrator enriches oxygen already present in the air rather than creating it through a chemical reaction.
To see how these principles apply to different models, compare the HIDGEEM SJ-OX1C portable oxygen concentrator with the HIDGEEM SJ-OX1A home oxygen concentrator. Review each model's oxygen concentration at the selected flow setting, power options and operating requirements. For medical oxygen therapy, follow your healthcare professional's prescribed settings and the device instructions.
