Oxygen recommendations

[panther1400]

Looking to buy a set of oxygen masks or what every you guys recommend, flow meter, aerox, what brand I really have no clue on what I need to complete my oxygen system in my 1980 M20K.

[johnggreen]

I've been using Aerox Oxsavers (with metering valves) for seven years.  Completely satisfied and save lots of oxygen.  You'll need masks over 18m, but I don't go there.

Jgreen

[DonMuncy]

Call Aerox. I presume you have nothing but the built in tank through the regulator to the cabin outlets. My opinion is that you need (for each user), a valve (which plugs into the cabin outlet), the hose from the valve, a flow indicator and a nasal canula (good for up to 18,000 ft). I personally like the Aerox Oxy Saver which is frugal with your oxygen supply.  If you anticipate flights over 18,000, you will need masks. I don't have masks and am not qualified to recommend one over another.

[Awful_Charlie]

I also use the Aerox oxysaver cannulas, and find them just as comfortable as the standard ones.  I do have a few standard ones too, for those occasions I take more than two of us into the o2 levels (I make cannualas personal, not many people relish the thought of others boogers being pushed up their nose!)

For masks I've got the Mountain High ones - pretty comfortable (unless you have more than a couple of days of beard), and actually cheap compared with the Mooeny/Avox part.

For the oxysaver and the mask, I use the flowmeter, and keep a oximeter with spare batteries in the cockpit pouches.  I find the oxysavers need a little more flow than advertised to keep my levels at 95+, but still considerably less than the plain ones.  The mask takes the rated flow from the altitude compensated regulator standard in a Bravo to achieve the same.

Get up there and enjoy the wx and the scenery!

Ben

[jwilkins]

If you plan to use the built in system the first things I would do is 1) Check the test date on the Ox tank and see if it needs a new Hydro test. If it fails the test the cost of replacing the tank is really high. If I had to replace the tank, I would probably go back to a portable system, and 2) have your on-board system checked for leaks.

If it checks out OK THEN buy the individual setups, which are different than what you will buyif you are using a portable system. My 1980 K uses "Scott" type fittings to plug into the built-in ports. 

One setup came with the plane. I bought a second set up (Scott connector, valve, flow meter, cannula) for a little over $100. I don't fly high enough to use a mask. I do have and use a pulse oximeter. Even Walmart sells them now.  It's surprising how your oxygen levels can sink even at low altitudes if you are breathing slow and shallow. A few deep breaths can make that OX level jump right back up at lower altitudes.

The Scott connector is on teh left; the valve on the right.

Jim

 

 

[Parker_Woodruff]

I use the Aerox mask with mic.  It works well and ATC can hear me just fine.

[rainman]

Just want the emphasize the need for a pulse oximeter and the importance of using it. They are cheap and accurate. I use the Oxi-Go pulse oximeter, but many others are out there. Don't determine your need for oxygen by altitude only. You will be surprised at how low some peoples oxygenation is even below 10K MSL.  You don't think clearly so don't kid yourself into thinking you can function normally if your pulse ox reads below 90%.  I've been in the altitude chamber several times and it's clear how peoples function deteriorates, like doing simple math and repeating phrases exactly.   Ray N226C

[davidsguerra]

where can you  get the metering valves?

 

[DonMuncy]

where can you  get the metering valves?

Aerox

[sbethune]

I second the oximeter suggestion.  They can be had cheap, and it's very clear that percent O2 saturation is a vital statistic worth monitoring.  Low saturation results in poor problem solving skills, analagous to driving drunk - it can be done, but it's too unpredictable.  I live at sea level, happily use the NP's over 8K, and a simple plastic mask from 15 to 23K, arriving with no headaches.  The cost of O2 is reduced dramatically by filling your own tank.

[triple8s]

I have the oximeter meter but thats it should I be looking at a pulse demand or an oxysaver with flow meter?

[sbethune]

It depends on how much it costs to refill your tank.

Pulse demand is designed to reduce waste, but adds complexity and cost.

If you fill your own tank there is an equipment cost as well, but the cost of the gas is low enough that I don't worry about waste.  Don't look to conserve oxygen like you do fuel.

[panther1400]

What oxygen do you use medical, welders, aviation?

[WardHolbrook]

Quote: panther1400

What oxygen do you use medical, welders, aviation?