How do Oxygen Systems work on Planes?

Summary

In this engaging video, Jeff Kelley breaks down the essentials of onboard oxygen systems in aircraft, from the types of oxygen delivery systems to how they function during emergencies. He explains the science behind oxygen in the atmosphere, the effects of altitude on oxygen levels, and how oxygen masks and tanks work in case of cabin depressurization. Viewers also learn about different types of oxygen systems, including gaseous and chemical oxygen, and the importance of maintenance and safety checks to ensure a safe and smooth flight. The video blends technical information with accessible explanations for aviation enthusiasts.

Takeaways

• 😀 Oxygen systems are crucial for ensuring passengers can breathe at high altitudes where air pressure is much lower.
• 😀 At 25,000 feet, blood oxygen saturation drops to around 50%, making supplemental oxygen vital for safety.
• 😀 Continuous Flow Systems release oxygen continuously, regardless of whether you’re inhaling or exhaling, but they can be wasteful.
• 😀 Demand Flow Systems only release oxygen when you inhale, saving oxygen when you’re not breathing.
• 😀 Diluter Demand Systems mix outside air with oxygen to provide the right balance, minimizing waste.
• 😀 Pressure Demand Systems are used in extreme environments, delivering oxygen under higher pressure to ensure blood oxygen levels remain safe.
• 😀 Two types of oxygen delivery systems in aircraft: Gaseous Oxygen Systems (stored in pressurized cylinders) and Chemical Oxygen Generators (use chemical reactions to produce oxygen).
• 😀 Oxygen masks drop when cabin altitude exceeds 14,000 feet, or if manually triggered by the pilot in case of depressurization.
• 😀 Pilots must act quickly to descend to a breathable altitude, as chemical oxygen generators only last for about 10 minutes for passengers.
• 😀 Aircraft mechanics play a vital role in ensuring oxygen systems and cabin pressurization are functioning properly and leak-free for safe flight operations.
• 😀 Oxygen systems require regular maintenance, including cleaning, to prevent risks like fires from petroleum-based products reacting with pure oxygen.

Q & A

Why do oxygen masks drop in the event of cabin depressurization?

Oxygen masks drop when there is a drop in cabin pressurization, typically when the cabin altitude exceeds 14,000 ft. This is an automatic response designed to ensure passengers have access to supplemental oxygen.

What is the primary function of onboard oxygen systems in aircraft?

The primary function of onboard oxygen systems is to provide supplemental oxygen during cabin depressurization, smoke, fumes, or medical emergencies to ensure passengers and crew can breathe safely.

What gases make up the air we typically breathe, and what is their pressure at sea level?

The air we breathe consists of approximately 78% nitrogen, 20% oxygen, and the remaining 2% made up of carbon dioxide, hydrogen, helium, and other gases. At sea level, these gases are under a pressure of about 14.7 PSI.

How does altitude affect the amount of oxygen available in the air?

As altitude increases, the air becomes less dense and the atmospheric pressure decreases, which reduces the amount of available oxygen. For example, at 25,000 ft, blood oxygen saturation can drop to around 50%.

What are the differences between continuous flow and demand flow oxygen systems?

Continuous flow oxygen systems provide a steady flow of oxygen regardless of whether the person is inhaling or exhaling, which can be wasteful. Demand flow systems only release oxygen when the user inhales, conserving oxygen during exhalation.

What is a diluter demand system, and how does it work?

A diluter demand system is similar to a demand flow system, but it mixes the oxygen with outside air to provide just the right amount of oxygen, avoiding waste and ensuring efficiency.

How do pressure demand systems differ from other oxygen delivery systems?

Pressure demand systems provide oxygen at high pressure, forcing it into the lungs when the user needs it most, such as in intense or stressful environments, to maintain safe blood oxygen levels.

What is the purpose of a chemical oxygen generator in an aircraft?

A chemical oxygen generator is a system that produces pure oxygen by igniting sodium chlorate crystals. It is commonly used in passenger cabins and automatically activates when oxygen is needed due to a drop in cabin pressure.

What role do aircraft maintenance personnel play in ensuring the safety of oxygen systems?

Aircraft maintenance personnel are responsible for ensuring the oxygen systems are properly maintained, pressurized, clean, and free of leaks. They regularly check these systems to ensure they function correctly and safely.

Why is maintaining a clean environment around oxygen systems so important?

Maintaining a clean environment is crucial because oxygen can react with petroleum-based products, leading to fires. This is especially important for gaseous oxygen systems that are sensitive to contaminants.