Respiratory Air Sources
Respiratory Air Sources
Air compressors, ambient air pumps, breathing air carts, air purification panels, or air cylinders for cascade systems designed to supply Grade D breathing air.
Breathing air is supplied by different air sources depending on application and environment. While the result of providing Grade D breathable air is the same according to OSHA 29 CFR 1910.134, the method by which it is provided, tested, and monitored can vary greatly.
Supplied-air respirators (SARs) operate in one of two modes: Continuous flow (CF) or pressure demand (PD). Continuous flow provides the user with a steady flow of air, while pressure demand provides air based on the user’s breathing.
CF units provide air through a hose attached to an outside supply because they are typically used in spaces that are extremely hazardous. Common CF units are air compressors and ambient air pumps. All CF sources require air supply from uncontaminated compressed-air sources conforming to at least Grade D of ANSI Standard Z86.1.
Common PD air sources are cylinders that can be set up in remote sites that might otherwise be impossible to reach with a large stationary compressor. Other PD air source options include a cylinder cascade system consisting of several air cylinders stored in portable storage racks and designed to provide breathing air for up to four respirators.
Air purification panels, manifolds, and filters monitor air quality before it moves to an airline. Portable filtration panels have a hard-sided case to enable ease of mobility.
Breathing air carts are versatile and practical units that use compressed air cylinders (SCBA) mounted onto a cart to provide mobility. Breathing air carts are typically used for long-durations, in toxic environments (e.g., asbestos removal), and in confined spaces (e.g., tank cleaning).
Regulatory compliance details can be obtained at the individual product level.