What is a key consideration when selecting materials for medical gas systems?

Selecting materials for medical gas systems involves careful consideration of their compatibility with the specific medical gases being used and their ability to perform under pressure. Medical gases, such as oxygen, nitrous oxide, and medical air, can react differently with various materials, potentially leading to degradation, leaks, or contamination which can compromise patient safety.

The performance of materials under pressure is equally critical, as medical gas systems operate at high pressures, so materials must be robust enough to withstand these conditions without failure. This ensures the integrity and reliability of the gas delivery system.

While factors like aesthetics, cost, and availability are important in a broader context, they do not directly address the fundamental safety and functionality requirements that are paramount in medical gas applications. Therefore, compatibility with the gases and performance standards are the primary considerations in the selection process.