OXYGEN SYSTEMS


The development of oxygen equipment has necessarily paralleled progress in the performance of today’s modern aircraft. Without protection from the physiological problems at altitude, humans becomes the limiting factor on how fast, how high, and how well an aircraft can perform. Oxygen equipment and delivery is just one area that has enabled flight in the hostile environment above 12,000 feet.


Oxygen is provided for both passenger and crew needs. Passenger oxygen systems employ emergency drop down masks allowing for a constant low-flow of oxygen at 2-4 litres/min. This oxygen supplement is not enough to maintain full oxygenation above 27,000ft msl. These masks are designed to be used in a decompression during a descent from altitude. They will provide temporary (15-20 minutes) of supplemental oxygen. They provide little to no protection from smoke. Medical oxygen is also often available on board. It is typically delivered via a mask at a rate of between 4-12 lpm depending on the delivery system.


On the flight deck there are 2 types of regulators available.


Continuous flow regulators provide a constant flow of 100% oxygen. Typically they use a re-breather bag attached to the mask allowing the user to see that oxygen is flowing through the system. Uninterrupted oxygen is provided assuring continuous 100% oxygen to the pilot.


Demand and Pressure Demand regulators furnish oxygen only when the user inhales. They employ an airtight seal and will retain all of the oxygen flowing into the mask. This type of regulator and mask provides a higher altitude capability than most continuous flow systems. They may be safety used at altitudes of 40,000 feet.


PAX Mask "Dixie cup" POB Mask “full-faced mask” Crew Mask “quick don”


PASSENGER MASK USE 1. Mask drops automatically


2. Do not hesitate - Pull Mask to face Pin Releases Oxygen starts


3. Put strap over head Put Mask over nose and mouth


4. Tighten strap


5. After you put on your mask, help others


To activate the flow of oxygen to a passenger mask, an O2 valve release pin must be pulled free of the overhead passenger service unit. The pin is attached by a lanyard, string, or clip, to the mask or supply hose. The typical mask has ambient air inhale/ exhale valves built into the front of the mask; thus, the mask is NOT a smoke protection device.


High Altitude Awareness Training 22


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