StoreX
Series
STX_V078.doc
48
CMa,
23.11.2009
6.4.6
Specific Advice for O2 Oxygen
Properties of Oxygen
Oxygen is the only gas, which supports life. The normal concentration in the air
that we breathe is approximately 21%. The danger occurs when the oxygen
levels in the air and the hazards of asphyxia become very great.
Boiling Point @ 1 atm
-183.0°C (-297.3°F)
Freezing Point @ 1 atm
-218.8°C (-361°F)
Vapor Pressure @ 25°C
N/A (cylinder ~200 bar typ.)
Solubility in Water @ 0°C, 1 atm
3.16% vol.
Specific Gravity (air =1) @-183°C, 1 atm
1.14
Gaseous oxygen is colorless and odorless. Liquid oxygen is pale blue and
odorless. Oxygen is nonflammable, but supports and VIGOROUSLY
ACCELERATES COMBUSTION of flammables. Some elastomers (o-rings, valve
seats, etc.) are not compatible with oxygen. Cleanliness and compatibility of
materials in contact with oxygen are therefore essential especially for internal
parts of piping systems.
Health Hazard Data of Oxygen
Oxygen is nontoxic under most conditions of use and is necessary to support life.
However, breathing pure oxygen at one atmosphere, may produce cough and
chest pains within 8-24 hours. Concentrations of 60% may produce these
symptoms in several days. At two atmospheres symptoms occur in 2-3 hours.
Partial pressure of oxygen in excess of two atmospheres may produce a variety
of central nervous system manifestations including tingling of fingers and toes,
visual and hearing disturbances, abnormal sensations, impaired coordination,
confusion, muscle twitching, and seizures resembling those of epilepsy. Severe
hazards may be present when confusion and impaired judgment lead to
operational errors. Infants exposed to oxygen levels in excess of 35-40% may
suffer permanent visual impairment or blindness due to retrolental fibroplasia.
WARNING !
Materials which burn in air will burn violently in atmosphere richer by approx.
25% oxygen. Some materials will burn in pure oxygen which are
nonflammable in air.
Liquid oxygen or cold gas will freeze tissues and can cause severe cryogenic
(extremely low temperature) burns.
Prevent contact of liquid oxygen with exposed skin. Prevent entrapment of liquid
in closed systems. Use only in well ventilated areas. Open oxygen valves slowly.
Compressed gas cylinders contain oxygen at extremely high pressure and should
be handled with care. Never use direct flame to heat a compressed gas cylinder.
If cryogenic liquid or cold boil-off gas contacts a worker's skin or eyes, frozen
tissues should be flooded or soaked in tepid water 41-46°C (105-115°F). DO
NOT USE HOTWATER. Burns which result in blistering or deeper tissue freezing
should be seen to promptly by a physician.
Artisan Technology Group - Quality Instrumentation ... Guaranteed | (888) 88-SOURCE | www.artisantg.com
