An Overview on Aircraft Oxygen Systems and Proper Servicing Procedures

When aircraft operate at high altitudes where air density and pressure lowers, breathable air often becomes scarce. To ensure the safety of pilots, crew, and passengers alike, aircraft will utilize various systems to provide supplemental oxygen. Aircraft oxygen systems and equipment will come in many forms to accommodate standard and emergency needs alike, where solutions can range from simple personal-use cans to complex systems that feed air into a pressurized cabin. In this blog, we will offer insight into the common components and equipment that make up typical aircraft oxygen systems, as well as proper procedures for servicing to uphold long-term functionality and safety.

For many systems, the primary source of oxygen for distribution will often be cylinders that store the gas in a compressed form until it is needed. These oxygen cylinders will generally be connected to a network of plumbing and delivery valves that manage flow through the system. Regulators are very important in achieving proper oxygen pressure for suitable breathing, as they can adjust flow to meet cabin altitude levels and the needs of individuals onboard. While the oxygen systems that manage pressurized environments do not require any additional accessories to deliver air, many personal-use and emergency equipment will utilize oxygen masks or nasal cannula to bring oxygen directly to a user’s mouth and/or nose. As a last common element of these assemblies, flow indicators are prevalent in areas where a visual confirmation of oxygen being delivered is desired.

Depending on the type of aircraft one is operating, the altitude at which it travels at, and its specific operational needs, there are a number of oxygen system configurations that may be present. The two primary options are continuous flow and demand-based systems, the former being where oxygen is constantly supplied to users. Generally, this is best for pressurized aircraft or those traveling at lower altitudes. On the other hand, demand-based systems only provide oxygen when a user inhales, with these assemblies being commonly used by pilots traveling at high altitudes and for non-pressurized aircraft where there is a desire for a more efficient use of supply.

When it comes to servicing an aircraft oxygen system, one of the most important factors is ensuring that cylinders are refilled with the right type of oxygen. Only aviation-grade oxygen should be used, as it is purified to a higher level than medical or industrial oxygen to prevent freezing and blocking of passages as a result of any moisture or contaminants being present. Using the incorrect type of oxygen can result in system malfunctions, putting passengers and crew at risk.

Before filling cylinders, they should be inspected for any visible damage or corrosion. Additionally, plumbing and delivery valves should also be tested to verify that no leaks are present. As pure oxygen is highly combustible, the process should also be carried out within a well-ventilated area. For further safety of workers, all technicians should wear proper protective equipment before conducting operations, and all tools should be cleaned and free of any grease or oil. Last but not least, it is also important to avoid overfilling cylinders, as this can cause various hazards as a result of excessive pressure.

Routine maintenance of all elements of an aircraft oxygen system is also critical to mitigating any chance of performance loss or failure. One key practice is the regular inspection and replacement of regulators, flow indicators, and other components to ensure that they are all in proper working order. Cleaning the oxygen masks or nasal cannula is another essential practice, as these components must be kept sanitary to avoid spreading germs or bacteria among passengers and crew. Additionally, each system should be regularly purged to remove any moisture or contaminants that may have accumulated in lines, preventing potential blockages or malfunctions.

For those in need of high-quality aircraft oxygen system components, we offer a diverse selection of cylinders, regulators, and other related products at competitive prices here on ASAP 3Sixty. With our curated catalogs, we welcome you to begin exploring our expansive offerings while making use of online quote request forms we provide to obtain tailored pricing information for your comparisons. If you wish to connect with one of our representatives to discuss any particular requirements or questions that you may have, you may give us a call or email at any time; our staff is available around the clock to provide service, and we would be more than happy to assist you however we can!