Liquid Oxygen

Oxygen is a colorless, odorless and tasteless gas that supports life and combustion. All elements, except rare gases, react with oxygen, over a wide range of temperatures, to form oxides. Oxygen is 1.1 times heavier than air and is slightly soluble in water.

Oxygen is present in the atmosphere at a concentration of 21.0%. Oxygen is recovered from air in an Air Separation Unit (ASU) where it is drawn off as a cryogenic liquid at about -298°F. Oxygen can then be distributed as a cryogenic liquid or as a gas in cylinders. Oxygen can also be generated onsite, using various techniques.

The major uses of oxygen are based on its combustion-sustaining, oxidizing and life-supporting attributes. Whether used directly or to enrich combustion air, oxygen is widely used with fuel gases in furnaces, smelters, kilns, welding and metal cutting. Oxygen is used in chemical production as a raw material and in pulp manufacturing as a bleaching agent. Most importantly, oxygen is used for medical reasons to save and protect life.