Stored oxygen vs breathable air: Choosing between MSA’s W65 self-rescue respirator and Ocenco’s M20 or EBA6.5

MSA’s W65 Self-Rescuer, as well as Ocenco’s M20 and EBA 6.5 are prominent self-rescuers used across various industries, from mining to chemical manufacturing. Both suppliers offer excellent design, functionality, and overall reliability, so how can you ensure that you are buying the best solution for your operation?

MSA’s W65 Self-Rescuer: Breathable air

The MSA W65 Self-Rescuer is primarily designed for escape from environments where carbon monoxide is the immediate hazard. It uses a hopcalite catalyst to convert deadly carbon monoxide to carbon dioxide in a breathable air mixture, all contained in a device that is lightweight and provides protection for up to four hours, making it suitable for short-duration emergencies.

Breathable air self-rescuers do not carry their own oxygen but instead filter toxic gases and particulates from the surrounding environment. This design is beneficial in conditions where the air is breathable but contaminated with harmful gases or particles. These devices are typically lighter and less cumbersome than stored oxygen units, making them easier to carry and use, particularly in emergencies that require quick response and mobility.

Ocenco’s M20 and EBA 6.5: Stored oxygen

Ocenco’s M20 is an oxygen-generating self-rescuer, which sets it apart by providing a chemically generated oxygen supply rather than filtering or converting ambient air. This device is compact and offers up to 32 minutes of oxygen, which is generated regardless of the external atmosphere. Its broad application potential makes it suitable for a variety of industrial environments.

The Ocenco EBA 6.5 is a self-contained, closed-circuit emergency escape breathing device designed primarily for use in mining environments. This device is notable for its robust, transparent case that allows users to quickly assess its condition visually. The EBA 6.5 offers up to 100 liters of oxygen flow for high-demand situations and can provide up to 90 minutes of oxygen supply at a flow rate of 35 liters per minute under typical usage. For users at rest, manual adjustment of the oxygen valve can extend respiratory protection for up to 8 hours. The EBA 6.5 is lightweight, weighing only 8.0 lbs (3.6 kg).

Stored oxygen self-rescuers provide an independent supply of oxygen, which is a significant advantage in environments where the air may be heavily contaminated or devoid of oxygen. This makes them particularly useful in situations where the ambient atmosphere is non-breathable due to pollutants or an absence of oxygen. These devices are designed to offer a reliable source of oxygen for durations that can extend from one hour to several hours, depending on the device’s capacity. This longer duration of support is ideal for prolonged emergencies where escape routes are lengthy or obstructed.

MSA’s W65 Self-Rescuer vs. Ocenco’s M20 & EBA 6.5

The M20’s advantage lies in its ability to function independently of the surrounding atmosphere, providing oxygen even in environments where the air is irrespirable. This feature makes it exceptionally reliable in varied and unpredictable conditions. On the other hand, the W65, while effective against carbon monoxide, does not provide protection against other toxic gases or oxygen-deficient environments.

When it comes the EBA 6.5, the combination of portability, immediate oxygen delivery, and long-duration potential makes this a critical safety tool for ensuring breathable air in emergency situations where ambient air may become unbreathable due to hazards like smoke or toxic gases.

The W65 provides a significantly longer duration of use (up to 4 hours) compared to the 32 minutes offered by the M20. This makes the W65 ideal for situations where a longer escape time might be necessary, such as in extensive underground settings. However, the quick activation and immediate oxygen supply of the M20 are critical in sudden emergency scenarios.

The choice between these devices often comes down to the specific industry and the nature of the potential hazards, so Carroll Technologies supplies all three. The W65 is tailored for environments with a high risk of carbon monoxide exposure, typical in the mining sector. The M20’s broader protective capabilities make it suitable for a wider range of industries, including chemical manufacturing, where chemical spills or fires might create various toxic conditions. The EBA 6.5 is ideal for customers who need to store or cache units for areas of a mine that would require longer periods of oxygen.

For help selecting the best option for your requirements, get in touch with us and we will be happy to advise.