Oxygen, a fundamental element for life, is also an essential component in various maritime applications. Its role on ships extends far beyond supporting human life; it is pivotal in ensuring safety and operational efficiency in the demanding environment of the sea.

Life Support and Medical Use

The primary and most critical use of oxygen on ships is for life support. In an environment where medical help may be hours or even days away, having a reliable supply of medical-grade oxygen is crucial for addressing emergencies. Oxygen is used in medical kits for resuscitation and to treat conditions like hypoxia, where the body is deprived of adequate oxygen supply.

Enhancing Combustion in Engines

Oxygen plays an irreplaceable role in ship engines, where it is used to enhance combustion. Better combustion leads to more efficient fuel use, essential for long voyages. The efficient use of oxygen in engines boosts performance and helps reduce emissions – a growing concern in the maritime industry.

Welding and Metal Cutting

Ship maintenance and repair often involve welding and metal cutting, activities in which oxygen is indispensable. One of the most common applications of oxygen in welding is oxy-fuel welding. In this process, oxygen is mixed with a fuel gas—like acetylene, propane, or hydrogen—to create a flame hot enough to melt metals. When combined with a fuel gas, pure oxygen significantly increases the flame temperature compared to air-fuel mixtures. This higher temperature is essential for efficiently melting metal at the welding point.

Oxygen in Diving and Underwater Operations

Oxygen is a vital part of the diving gas mixture for ships involved in diving and underwater operations. Oxygen’s importance is also highlighted in the medical sphere, particularly in hyperbaric treatments for divers afflicted with decompression sickness. Precise regulation of oxygen concentrations is paramount to ensure the safety and efficiency of these underwater endeavors.

The Role in Environmental Monitoring

Onboard environmental monitoring systems often rely on oxygen sensors to maintain air quality and ensure a safe environment for the crew. These systems detect any changes in oxygen levels, which could indicate potential hazards such as gas leaks or insufficient ventilation.

Oxygen for Enhanced Water Treatment

Oxygen is used in biological water treatment systems on ships to promote the growth of beneficial bacteria. These bacteria help break down sewage and organic waste, ensuring that the water discharged into the ocean is as clean as possible, aligning with environmental regulations and sustainability efforts.

nexAir’s Commitment to Maritime Safety

At nexAir, we understand the unique challenges faced at sea and are committed to helping our customers Forge Forward, with the best-in-class oxygen solutions. Our KnowHow in oxygen applications ensures that every ship we equip is prepared to meet the demands of the sea, from life-saving medical applications to essential operational functions.
Through our partnership with maritime clients, nexAir elevates safety and contributes to a more efficient, environmentally conscious, and sustainable maritime industry. With our support, ships can navigate the world’s oceans more safely and responsibly than ever before.