How does a medical oxygen regulator work?

A medical oxygen regulator is a device that controls the flow of oxygen from a compressed gas cylinder to a patient or medical equipment. The regulator works by reducing the high pressure of the gas in the cylinder to a lower, more manageable pressure suitable for medical applications.
The regulator typically consists of two chambers separated by a diaphragm. The first chamber is connected to the high-pressure side of the gas cylinder, while the second chamber is connected to the low-pressure side. The diaphragm is designed to flex in response to changes in pressure, which allows it to control the flow of gas through the regulator.
As the high-pressure gas enters the first chamber, it pushes against the diaphragm, which in turn compresses a spring. This spring resistance regulates the pressure, preventing it from exceeding a predetermined level. When the pressure in the second chamber drops below the desired level, the diaphragm expands, allowing more gas to flow through the regulator and reach the patient or equipment.
Medical oxygen regulators typically have an adjustable flow rate that allows the healthcare professional to set the rate of oxygen delivery to the patient. This is important because the required flow rate may vary depending on the patient's condition and the type of medical intervention being performed. The regulator may also include additional safety features such as pressure relief valves, gauges, and alarms to ensure that the patient receives the correct amount of oxygen at the appropriate pressure.