Ventilator problems caused by humidity in the air supplied from simple compressors.
Relative humidity of air produced by simple compressors used to drive ventilators was measured at different working pressures. At normal working pressures, a relative humidity of 100% was found and condensation occurred, mainly at the high pressure air/oxygen mixer valve. This resulted in blockages and loss of accuracy which could have serious consequences for patients. It was concluded that simple compressors are unsuitable and that medical air must be used.
D000388:Air; D006813:Humidity; D011312:Pressure; D012119:Respiration; D013696:Temperature