How the Oxygen Consumption Calculator Works

This calculator helps estimate oxygen consumption and tank duration for various oxygen tanks based on activity level and tank specifications.

Steps to Use the Calculator

1. Select the size of your oxygen tank and the corresponding conversion factor is automatically applied.
2. Input the tank pressure (in bar) and the activity level, which determines the oxygen consumption rate (flow rate in L/min).
3. The calculator applies the formulas to determine the oxygen consumption rate and tank duration.
4. Click "Calculate" to view the results.

Common Tank Sizes and Conversion Factors

Tank Size	Capacity	Conversion Factor
C	170 L	0.085
D	340 L	0.16
E	680 L	0.28
F	1360 L	0.68
M	3200 L	1.56
G	4100 L	1.7
H	6600 L	3.14
J	6800 L	3.4
K	7100 L	3.55

Equations Used

The oxygen consumption and tank duration are calculated using the following formulas:

1. Oxygen Consumption Rate

The oxygen consumption rate is determined based on activity intensity:

Flow Rate (L/min) = Activity Rate × Pressure at Depth

Where:

• Activity Rate = Flow rate at surface level (e.g., resting = 10-15 L/min).
• Pressure at Depth = 1 atm at the surface + additional pressure due to depth (ignored in this calculator).

2. Tank Duration

Tank duration is calculated using the formula:

Tank Duration (minutes) = (PSIG × Conversion Factor) / Flow Rate

Where:

• PSIG = Tank pressure (in PSIG) = Tank Pressure (bar) × 14.5.
• Conversion Factor = Tank-specific value based on capacity (see chart above).
• Flow Rate = Oxygen consumption rate in L/min.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is the Conversion Factor?

The conversion factor accounts for the relationship between tank size and pressure to estimate the total amount of oxygen available. Larger tanks have higher conversion factors.

2. Why is Tank Size Important?

The tank size determines the amount of oxygen stored and affects the total oxygen available for use. It also impacts the conversion factor.

3. How Does Activity Level Impact Consumption?

Higher activity levels result in faster oxygen consumption. For example, moderate swimming (~20-30 L/min) will deplete the tank faster than resting (~10-15 L/min).

4. What Happens When the Tank Runs Out?

If the tank runs out of oxygen, the user must immediately switch to an alternate supply or return to the surface (for scuba divers). This calculator helps estimate remaining time to avoid emergencies.

5. Can This Calculator Be Used for Scuba Diving?

Yes, but remember that depth impacts oxygen consumption rates. For simplicity, this calculator assumes surface conditions (1 atm).