O2 Tank Duration Calculator
The O2 Tank Duration Calculator estimates how long your oxygen supply will last based on tank size, pressure, and flow rate. This tool helps patients and caregivers manage therapy effectively by providing precise timing for refills. Whether you are planning a trip, scheduling a doctor's visit, or ensuring a backup supply, this calculator offers reliable results.
Preset Scenarios
How Oxygen Duration Is Calculated
Oxygen duration tells you exactly how much time is left in your cylinder at a specific flow rate. This calculation uses a standard medical formula to convert the physical volume of gas into usable time.
Duration (minutes) = (Tank Size × Current Pressure ÷ 2200) × 28.3 ÷ Flow Rate
Where:
- Tank Size = Volume of cylinder in cubic feet
- Current Pressure = PSI reading on gauge
- 2200 = Standard full tank pressure in PSI
- 28.3 = Conversion factor (cubic feet to liters)
- Flow Rate = Prescribed rate in Liters per minute
- First, the tool calculates the current volume of oxygen by adjusting the tank's total size for the current pressure level.
- Next, it converts that volume into liters to match the flow rate unit.
- Finally, it divides the total liters by your flow rate to determine the exact minutes remaining.
What Your Oxygen Duration Means
This number represents the continuous time you can rely on your current tank before it runs empty at your set flow rate. Use this information to plan your day safely and avoid interruptions to your therapy.
Critical Planning: If you have less than 2 hours remaining, you should arrange for a refill immediately or switch to a backup cylinder. This short window requires urgent attention to ensure you do not run out.
Daily Activities: A duration between 2 and 8 hours allows for short trips like grocery shopping, attending appointments, or visiting friends. You should plan to return home or refill within this timeframe.
Extended Freedom: Results over 8 hours offer the flexibility for a full day out or overnight use without worry. This duration is ideal for long trips or extended time away from your main supply.
Keep in mind that temperature changes and altitude can slightly affect how fast you use oxygen. This tool is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider regarding your specific oxygen therapy needs and prescription.
Check your tank pressure at the start of every day to ensure you always have a safe buffer of oxygen available.