Oxygen analyzers are important gas detection devices, essential for ensuring human safety. These portable detectors continuously monitor oxygen levels in the air and provide instant readings on a digital display, alerting users when O2 concentrations drop to dangerous levels. By quickly identifying oxygen-deficient atmospheres, these analyzers help prevent occupational hazards and protect workers from the risk of asphyxiation. In industrial settings, confined spaces, and other areas where oxygen depletion may occur, the use of oxygen detectors is paramount for maintaining a safe working environment. With the price of these life-saving devices dropping in recent years, reliable oxygen analyzers can now be purchased for less than $200, making them an accessible and indispensable tool for ensuring the well-being of employees across various industries.
Pros |
Cons |
|
|
Best Oxygen Analyzer Brand?
There are many oxygen analyzers on the market. The reputable brands used to detect elevated oxygen levels from O2 sources and concentrators include the following:
- Forensics Detectors Oxygen Detector
- Honeywell Oxygen Gas Detectors
- MSA Oxygen Detector
- Analytical Palm 02 Analyzer
- Nuvair Quickstick Oxygen Analyzer
- Maxtec Handi+ Oxygen Analyzer
- Maxtec MaxO2+ Oxygen Analyzer
Oxygen Analyzers & Applications?
Some applications have unique requirements when it comes to oxygen detection. Each situation calls for special oxygen detector function specifications, measurements, and attributes. Examples include the following:
- Oxygen Detection for Scuba Gas Bottles
- Oxygen Detection for Oxygen Concentrators
- Oxygen Detection for Food Headspace Analysis
- Oxygen Detection for Breath Analysis
- Oxygen Detection for Welding Applications
- Oxygen Detection for Flue Gas (residential)
- Oxygen Detection in Workplaces
Why Is Oxygen (O2) Gas So Important?
Oxygen helps sustain the majority of life on Earth. Without oxygen, our planet would be lifeless because humans and animals need it to survive. When O2 levels decrease, oxygen deficiency can occur at a dangerous rate and lead to asphyxiation. An oxygen detector is important to alert humans of decreasing O2 levels.
O2 is the chemical formula for oxygen. 20.9% of the air around us is made up of oxygen. Detecting oxygen levels is very important in our everyday lives. Some examples include:
- Detecting oxygen in manufacturing processes. Being aware of both enriched and depleted oxygen levels is necessary.
- Detecting oxygen in life support systems such as those used in spacecrafts, aircrafts, submarines, and vet hospitals.
- Detecting oxygen in gas bottles used in scuba diving.
- Detecting oxygen to help support human and animal health.
- Detecting oxygen to confirm that little or no oxygen exists, including welding, modified atmosphere packaging, or nitrogen flush purging processes.
- Detecting oxygen in welding torches
What Does an Oxygen Analyzer Do?
Oxygen detectors measure the amount of oxygen in the air as a %. An oxygen detector is a handheld unit with alarms that alert users of dangerous levels.
Oxygen detectors are also called oxygen meters, oxygen monitors, or oxygen analyzers. They all refer to an oxygen measuring instrument that can measure the O2 concentration in %vol or parts per million (ppm), alarming when these levels fall outside of the preset range.
How Does an Oxygen Analyzer Work?
An oxygen detector works by using an electronic sensor to detect O2 concentrations. The most common sensor used for oxygen detectors is an electrochemical sensor cell.
An oxygen detector is made up of two main parts:
- The electronics consisting of microprocessors with analog to digital converters.
- The electrochemical oxygen sensor. This galvanic cell outputs electrical energy from the electron transfer in a redox reaction modulated by the oxygen being detected. The partial pressure sensor outputs a voltage proportional to the oxygen concentration.
When the oxygen detector is "calibrated," it is able to detect oxygen from 0 to 30% (as an example). A linear extrapolation take place from the from zero point calibration (usually pure nitrogen) to 20.9% (air oxygen concentration).
How Does an Oxygen Sensor Work?
The most common electrochemical oxygen sensor is the Alpha Sensor (see below). Its profile, dimensions, and working principle is similar to many other electrochemical sensor cells.
When oxygen gas molecules permeate into the sensor, they react with a working electrode and trigger an electrochemical redox reaction. A current is generated proportional to the oxygen level detected.
What Are the Different Types of Oxygen Analyzers?
Type |
Description |
|
Oxygen Analyzer for Personal Protection
|
The majority of oxygen detectors are portable and can be clipped to your person. These are small, battery-powered units with an oxygen sensor that enable continuous personal protection.  |
| Oxygen Analyzer with Pump for Point Sampling |
This is an oxygen detector with a built-in or external pump. When these devices have a built in pump, they are also called oxygen analyzers. A probe is used to enable point sampling. These analyzers are used to detect oxygen content for food packaging, welding, and nitrogen purging applications in industry.  |
| Oxygen Analyzer for Stationary Fixed Wall |
Wall-mounted units provide continuous protection. These units are more expensive and offer protection in an industrial facility or other confined spaces. 
|
What Is the Difference Between Different Oxygen sensors?
O2 Sensor Technology |
Working Principle |
Pros |
Cons |
|
Ultrasonic Sensors |
The speed of sound is a function of the molecular composition of the gas. The speed and attenuation is proportional to the oxygen content.
|
|
|
|
Electrochemical Cells |
The oxygen gas reacts with a working electrode, triggering an electrochemical redox reaction. A current is generated that is proportional to the level of oxygen. |
|
|
|
Zirconia Sensors |
The zirconia allows oxygen ions to travel. When exposed to gases at different concentrations, an electrochemical voltage is generated. |
|
|
What Is Oxygen Deficiency?
Oxygen deficiency is life-threatening and cannot be detected by our sense of smell. In general, oxygen deficiency is caused by the release of inert gases, which then in turn displace oxygen.
Because roughly one-fifth of the atmosphere is oxygen, the O2 concentration is only reduced by one-fifth of the concentration of inert gas. For example, if 10% of helium is released into the atmosphere, the oxygen concentration decreases by 2% and the nitrogen concentration is reduced by 8%. Because liquid nitrogen (-196 °C) is often used in industrial areas, dangerous levels of oxygen deficiency can occur due to the evaporation of this liquid nitrogen.
What Are Safe Oxygen Levels?
When oxygen levels decrease, it becomes dangerous to humans and animals (typically less than 19.5%). Oxygen deficiency causes humans to basically suffocate, also known as asphyxiation. This can be a big problem in occupational environment such as confined silos, tanks, manholes, tunnels, and chambers.
When humans breath low oxygen, healthline.com describes the following possible symptoms of hypoxia:
- Shortness of breath while resting
- Severe shortness of breath after physical activity
- Decreased tolerance to physical activity
- Waking up out of breath
- Feelings of choking
- Wheezing
- Frequent cough
Various government agencies have recommended oxygen gas limits. Some examples are shown in the table below.
Agency |
Recommendation / Requirement |
| Occupational Safety and Health (OSHA) |
Air is considered oxygen-deficient below 19.5% |
| National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) |
Air is considered oxygen-deficient below 19.5% |
|
American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists (ACGIH)
|
<18% is minimum partial pressure without need for respiratory protection at normal atmospheric pressure
|
Are High Levels of Oxygen Dangerous?
High levels of oxygen, also known as hyperoxia, causes oxygen toxicity. This oxygen poisoning may damage the lungs or cell tissue, cause trouble breathing, and induce coughing.
An oxygen detector typically has two alarms. The first is a low alarm that triggers when oxygen levels decrease past a set-point. The second is a high alarm that goes off when enhanced oxygen levels occur.
What Is an Oxygen Analyzer Used For?
There is a plethora of applications that call for the use of an oxygen detector. Some of these uses are highlighted below.
- Veterinary: Oxygen therapy is administered to animals under various situations. An oxygen analyzer is necessary to ensure the correct amount of O2 is being provided to the animal.
- Food Packaging Analysis: Used in many food industries as a quality control check to ensure modified atmosphere packaging equipment is operating correctly. Typical requirements include an O2 measurement range from 0 to 100%, with 0.01% resolution and built-in pump.
- Nitrogen Flush and Leakage Testing: Many industrial systems and equipment incorporate nitrogen gas supply, where monitoring of leaks is essential. This is done by detecting residual oxygen. Typical requirements include an O2 measurement range from 0 to 100%, with 0.01% resolution and built-in pump.
- Scuba Tank Oxygen Supply: Scuba divers use air cylinders and enhanced oxygen air supply when diving. Before using the cylinders, they often use oxygen analyzers to validate the oxygen concentration. Typically requires O2 analyzers to detect enhanced oxygen levels ranging from 21 - 100%.
- Flue and Exhaust Gas: Combustion processes are fueled by oxygen. In most cases, oxygen is measured to help optimize the air-to-fuel ratio. This occurs in automobiles, gas powered appliances, and more sophisticated combustion processes such as power generation. Typical requirements include an O2 measurement range from 0 - 20.9% with 0.1% resolution.
How Can I Test My Oxygen Analyzer?
The best way to test your oxygen detector is to expose it to nitrogen. Since air is made up of 20.9% oxygen, bump testing it to pure nitrogen and perturbing the amount of O2 is a valid check. If your analyzer has alarms, it is important to verify that they are operational. Spray the gas onto the sensor to confirm sensor and LED and buzzer alarm operation.
Will My Oxygen Detector Alarm If I Breathe on It?
If you breath onto your oxygen detector, the detected O2 levels will quickly decrease as exhaled breath has depleted oxygen levels of approximately 17%. The below video analyzes oxygen exhalation.
How Do I Select an Oxygen Detector?
To select the best oxygen detector that serves your purpose, follow this guide. In order to narrow down your selection, first answer these questions:
- What oxygen detection range do I need?
- What resolution do I need?
- How often will I use it?
- What is my budget and operating cost budget?
- Does my application require any special product requirements? Do I need a pump, accreditations, or a waterproof device?
- Do I need advanced functions such as battery operation? Detection of flow or pressure?
- Do I need a stationary fixed wall unit?
Based on these answers, you can quickly narrow down a product for your purpose. You may need to compromise on certain features to adjust for your budget.
What is the difference between a partial pressure and absolute gas sensor?
We receive calls from customers expecting their O2 detector to decrease in O2% as they increase elevation. We are talking 3000, 4000, 7000 feet. The oxygen detectors we sell (FD-90A-O2) are made with electrochemical sensors. These are made with partial pressure gas sensors. In other words, they will provide the % oxygen in relation to other available gas molecules. This is different to an absolute gas sensor, which gives the absolute % of gas concentration. For example, CO2 sensors are absolute sensor (called NDIR) sensors and is not a partial pressure sensor. Read more here.
How Long Do Oxygen Detectors Last For?
An oxygen detector that employs electrochemical sensors will last between 24 to 36 months. Ultrasonic oxygen analyzers last from 4 to 6 years.
Can an Oxygen Gas Detector Measure Dissolved Oxygen?
No, it cannot. To measure dissolved oxygen (DO), a specific O2 meter for water must be purchased. An oxygen gas detector only measures oxygen content in air. A detector with different technology is required to measure oxygen in water, more commonly referred to as dissolved oxygen.
Is It Better to Detect Oxygen or Carbon Dioxide for Indoor Air Quality?
It is better to measure carbon dioxide. A CO2 monitor will detect carbon dioxide levels with 1 ppm resolution. A oxygen detector will measure, at best, 0.1% resolution (which is 1000 ppm). In other words, CO2 detection will allow for higher sensitivity and measurement fidelity. With similar detector qualities (including price), the better option is to measure CO2 for basic home indoor air quality.
However, if you're in a "confined space," then using an oxygen detector is recommended.
Is It Worth Replacing My Oxygen Sensor in My Oxygen Detector?
Some manufacturers offer replacement oxygen sensors, while others do not. Gas sensor replacement is a very lucrative business model. The cost effectiveness strongly depends on the price of a new unit.
In most instances, the cost of replacing a sensor outweighs the cost of purchasing a new gas detector unit. Consider the cost analysis below of these two scenarios.
** Scenario A: Purchasing a New Oxygen Detector
Model FD-90A-O2. Portable oxygen detector. Retail Price: $145
** Scenario B: Cost of an Oxygen Sensor Replacement
Engineer time to replace = 15 min @ $100/hr = $25
Calibration to NIST traceable gas = 15 min @ $100/hr = $25
Administration overhead = 10 min @ $60/hr = $10
Total = $155
Analysis = $145 (new detector) versus $155 (replacement sensor).
See how the numbers pan out.
Only if you actually replace the sensor yourself and calibrate it yourself is it actually worth the effort to save some bucks. If not, you are better off buying a brand new unit.
What Is Oxygen Detector Bump Testing?
- Bump testing is a procedure where the user exposes the detector to a small amount of “blast” target gas to ensure the detector operates as expected.
- Since the target gas "oxygen" exists in the atmosphere, bump testing oxygen detectors is typically performed using pure nitrogen gas.
- The function of this test is to verify proper operation and build user confidence, particularly in hazardous and critical user applications.
- It is recommended to bump test when first purchased, followed by weekly tests. Testing is critical in LIFE THREATENING and / or DANGEROUS applications in order to verify detector operation. See video explanation here.
How Do I Take Care of My Oxygen Analyzer?
- Store your oxygen detector at normal room temperature - about 70F with 50%RH (well within operating specifications).
- Store it away from electromagnetic or magnetic sources, such as phones.
- Store it in a clean environment with no dust or particles.
- Store it away from any exhaust gas, concentrated vapors, or harsh chemicals that may poison the sensor.
- Clean the casing of your detector with a damp cloth.
- Store it in a stable place where there are no vibrations or continuous shaking.
How Do I Properly Use an Oxygen Detector?
When operating an oxygen detector, there are some tips to consider. Obviously, be smart and read your product manual. Be sure to keep these tips in mind:
- Ensure the oxygen detector has been bump tested and validated as operational. Check to make sure that it is reading 20.9% in fresh air. If it is 20.8% or 21.0%, that is OK. If it is fluctuating beyond that, give it a quick calibration to fresh air so it displays 20.9%.
- When using a personal protection oxygen detector, turn it ON, and keep it on your person. Set your alarms as desired.
- If performing analytical measurements, keep the unit stationary. Ensure humidity and temperature are also tracked and remain constant as possible.
- Recovery time (i.e. time to come back to 20.9%) is typically longer than the response time of the oxygen sensor.
What Is the Difference between ppm and % Oxygen Readings?
The typical scale of concentration for O2 is ppm or %.
In most cases, oxygen % is used more often because air has a known concentration of 20.9%. The parts per million (ppm) scale is used when low levels of oxygen may be present. In this case, it is easier to communicate in ppm than the % scale. For example, it is more clear to say 10 ppm than 0.001%.
Conversion Example
O2 % value = (O2 ppm / 1,000,000) x 100%
For example, if we have 5,000 ppm of O2, then we obtain
O2 % value = (5,000 / 1,000,000) x 100%
O2 % value = 0.5%
Quick Conversion
10 ppm = 0.001%
100 ppm = 0.01%
1,000 ppm = 0.1%
10,000 ppm =1%
100,000 ppm =10%
1,000,000 ppm =100%
How are Electrochemical Oxygen Sensors Made?
Electrochemical oxygen sensors are typically made from a sensing electrode, a reference electrode, and an electrolyte. The sensing electrode is made from a material that reacts with oxygen, such as platinum or gold, and is coated with a catalyst that speeds up the reaction. The reference electrode is typically made from a stable metal, such as silver or silver chloride, and is used to measure the potential difference between the sensing electrode and the electrolyte. The electrolyte is typically a solution of potassium hydroxide or sodium hydroxide.
The sensing electrode and reference electrode are separated by a membrane that allows oxygen to pass through but blocks other gases. When oxygen comes into contact with the sensing electrode, it reacts with the catalyst, producing an electrical current that is proportional to the amount of oxygen present. The reference electrode measures the potential difference between the sensing electrode and the electrolyte, which is used to calculate the oxygen concentration.
How is low Oxygen (less than 20.9%) caused in the Home?
Low oxygen levels in a home can be caused by various factors, including insufficient ventilation, the combustion of fuels, and human exhalation of carbon dioxide due to inadequate fresh air exchange. The primary culprits are combustion sources like gas heaters, fireplaces, heating systems, stoves, or candles, which consume oxygen and release carbon dioxide and other gases, leading to a decrease in oxygen levels. Poor ventilation exacerbates the problem, as fresh air is not brought in to replace the consumed oxygen.
Modern energy-efficient homes are often constructed with airtight insulation, which limits the flow of fresh air into the house, trapping stale air, carbon dioxide, and other pollutants inside the building. This can significantly affect the oxygen levels in the home. To address this issue, opening windows regularly or improving the ventilation system can help.
While human breath CO2 exhalation can also affect air quality, low fresh air ventilation, and high CO2 levels from too many people in a small room are the most common causes of poor air quality in a home. In such cases, using a carbon dioxide monitor would be more appropriate, sensitive, and affordable than an oxygen monitor to observe changes in air quality.
Final Words
Oxygen (O2) detectors are crucial gas detection devices, essential for ensuring human safety in various environments. These portable analyzers continuously monitor oxygen levels in the air and provide instant readings on a digital display, alerting users when O2 concentrations drop to dangerous levels. By quickly identifying oxygen-deficient atmospheres, these detectors help prevent occupational hazards and protect workers from the risk of asphyxiation. In industrial settings, confined spaces, and other areas where oxygen depletion may occur, the use of oxygen detectors is paramount for maintaining a safe working environment. With the price of these life-saving devices dropping in recent years, reliable oxygen analyzers can now be purchased for less than $200, making them an accessible and indispensable tool for ensuring the well-being of employees across various industries.
About The AuthorDr. Kos Galatsis ("Dr.Koz") is the Chief Engineer of Forensics Detectors. The company operates from the scenic Palos Verdes Peninsula in Los Angeles, California. He is a subject matter expert on gas sensor technology, gas detectors, gas meters, and gas analyzers. He has been designing, building, manufacturing, and testing toxic gas detection systems for over 20 years. 
Every day is a blessing for Dr. Koz. He loves to help customers solve their unique problems. Dr. Koz also loves spending time with his wife and his three children going to the beach, grilling burgers, and enjoying the outdoors. Read more about Forensics Detectors here. Email: drkoz@forensicsdetectors.com |