What should the design of a medical air compressor include to ensure proper functioning?

The design of a medical air compressor should include oil-free operation to ensure proper functioning. This is crucial because medical air is often used for respiratory therapy and other medical applications where air quality is of utmost importance. Oil contaminants can potentially harm patients, leading to respiratory issues or other complications. An oil-free compressor eliminates the risk of introducing oil into the medical air supply, thereby maintaining a clean and safe environment for patient care.

In addition to the safety aspect, the reliability and efficiency of an oil-free compressor typically meet the stringent requirements of healthcare facilities. This enables continuous operation without the need for frequent maintenance associated with oil-based systems, which can be a significant advantage in a clinical setting.

Other design choices, such as incorporating multiple compressors or maintaining high noise levels, do not align with the best practices for ensuring a safe and effective medical air supply. Low-pressure settings, while important in certain contexts, do not address the core necessity for oil-free operation.