Blog How a Portable Oxygen Concentrator Works | Benefits, Uses & Safety

Portable oxygen concentrators are advanced medical devices designed to provide supplemental oxygen therapy to individuals with low blood oxygen levels. A portable oxygen concentrator (POC) draws in ambient air, removes nitrogen, and delivers oxygen-enriched air to support normal breathing. These devices can be powered by an electrical outlet or rechargeable batteries, making them ideal for both home use and travel.

Unlike traditional oxygen tanks, portable oxygen concentrators do not store compressed oxygen. Instead, they continuously produce oxygen as long as the device is powered. If the battery runs out, it can be recharged, and many models include adapters that allow operation while driving or riding in a vehicle.

Because portable oxygen concentrators are smaller and lighter than stationary oxygen units, they offer increased mobility and convenience. Many POCs are FAA-approved for air travel, allowing patients to safely receive oxygen therapy while flying.

What Is the Use of a Portable Oxygen Concentrator?

A portable oxygen concentrator is commonly prescribed for individuals who experience difficulty breathing due to medical conditions that reduce blood oxygen levels. One of the most common conditions requiring oxygen therapy is chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

COPD is a group of progressive lung diseases that includes chronic bronchitis and emphysema. These conditions impair airflow and reduce the lungs’ ability to oxygenate the blood effectively. A portable oxygen concentrator helps improve oxygen saturation, reduce shortness of breath, and support daily activities.

Portable oxygen concentrators may also be prescribed for other respiratory or cardiac conditions when clinically appropriate. All oxygen therapy should be used only under medical supervision and with a valid prescription.

How Does a Portable Oxygen Concentrator Work?

A portable oxygen concentrator operates through a precise, multi-step process that separates oxygen from ambient air.

1. The device draws in room air through an intake filter to remove dust and particles.
2. The air is compressed using an internal compressor.
3. Ambient air contains approximately 78–80% nitrogen and about 20–21% oxygen.
4. The concentrator removes nitrogen from the compressed air, delivering oxygen at a concentration of approximately 90–95%.
5. The oxygen-enriched air is stored briefly in a product tank and delivered to the user through a nasal cannula.

The key components of a portable oxygen concentrator are the compressor and the sieve bed filters. Once air enters the system, it is compressed and directed into the sieve beds.

The sieve beds contain a material called zeolite, a mineral with microscopic pores that selectively adsorb nitrogen molecules while allowing oxygen to pass through. Zeolite is not a microorganism; it is a naturally occurring mineral essential to oxygen separation technology.

Most portable oxygen concentrators use two sieve beds. While one sieve bed filters nitrogen, the other releases previously trapped nitrogen back into the environment. This alternating process allows continuous oxygen delivery.

Inogen G5 16-Cell Double Battery: Lithium-Ion battery; rechargeable; approximate weight 2.49 pounds.

As pressure decreases in one sieve bed, the zeolite releases nitrogen, which exits the system as normal air. The process then switches between sieve beds every few seconds to maintain consistent oxygen output.

Portable oxygen concentrators also include cooling systems to prevent overheating and ensure safe operation. After oxygen passes through all filters, it is delivered to the patient via a nasal cannula for comfortable inhalation.

Advantages of Portable Oxygen Concentrator

Portable oxygen concentrators are significantly safer than traditional compressed oxygen tanks, which may pose risks if damaged or improperly handled. Because POCs generate oxygen from ambient air, there is no need for oxygen refills or tank replacements.

As portable oxygen concentrators continue to become smaller and lighter, they are increasingly popular among patients who value mobility and independence. These devices eliminate the burden of carrying heavy oxygen cylinders while ensuring continuous oxygen therapy.

Portable oxygen concentrators offer several key benefits:

Easy To Use

Many patients find traditional oxygen systems confusing. Portable oxygen concentrators are designed with user-friendly digital displays, simple controls, and audible alerts. These alerts notify users of issues such as low battery levels or system malfunctions, helping ensure safe operation.

Better Sleep

People with COPD or other respiratory conditions may experience nocturnal oxygen desaturation, which can disrupt sleep. A portable oxygen concentrator helps maintain stable oxygen levels overnight when prescribed, supporting improved sleep quality and overall health.

Mobility and Independence

While stationary oxygen concentrators limit movement, portable oxygen concentrators allow users to remain active. Patients can leave their homes, attend social events, and travel while continuing oxygen therapy.

Using a portable oxygen concentrator can reduce dependence on caregivers and allow individuals to maintain their normal routines with confidence.

Enhances Your Stamina

With adequate oxygen support, patients may experience reduced fatigue and improved endurance. A portable oxygen concentrator allows users to perform everyday activities such as cooking, cleaning, and walking while maintaining prescribed oxygen levels.

Customizing Options

Each patient’s oxygen needs are different. Portable oxygen concentrators are available with pulse-dose delivery and, in some models, continuous-flow oxygen delivery. These settings must align with the patient’s medical prescription.

GCE Zen-O POC cannula filter and filter wrench designed for maintenance of GCE Zen-O portable oxygen concentrators.

Portable Oxygen Concentrator Battery Life

Portable oxygen concentrators are essential for patients who require oxygen away from home. Most battery-powered POCs are engineered to provide several hours of oxygen delivery, depending on flow settings and battery size.

Selecting a concentrator with appropriate battery capacity is important for long trips, daily errands, or international travel.

Portable Oxygen Concentrator Prescription Requirements

Whether a patient requires pulse-dose or continuous-flow oxygen depends entirely on their medical prescription. Pulse-dose oxygen concentrators deliver oxygen only during inhalation, conserving battery life.

Continuous-flow oxygen concentrators deliver oxygen continuously and require more power. Patients prescribed higher oxygen levels or continuous flow should choose a portable oxygen concentrator designed to support extended battery life at higher settings.

Battery options, such as 8-cell or 16-cell batteries, allow users to customize runtime based on their oxygen needs. Reliable models like the Inogen One G4 Portable Oxygen Concentrator are commonly used when prescribed.  

Best Portable Oxygen Concentrator Models

Inogen One G4

The Inogen One G4 uses Intelligent Delivery Technology to detect each breath and deliver oxygen efficiently. It is lightweight, compact, and FAA-approved for air travel, making it suitable for active users.

DeVilbiss iGo

The DeVilbiss iGo offers both pulse-dose and continuous-flow oxygen delivery. It can operate using AC power, DC power, or batteries, providing flexibility for various lifestyles.

Accessories for a Portable Oxygen Concentrator

Even compact portable oxygen concentrators should be transported using a protective carrying bag or backpack. Carrying cases protect the device from impact and environmental damage while improving portability.

Additional accessories, replacement filters, and maintenance tools are typically available through manufacturers or authorized suppliers. Portable oxygen rentals may also be an option for short-term oxygen therapy needs.

Medical Disclaimer

This content is for informational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice. Portable oxygen concentrators should only be used under the guidance of a licensed healthcare provider with a valid prescription.