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A chemical oxygen generator system is connected to all masks in the compartment. Pulling down on one oxygen mask removes the firing pin of the generator igniting a mixture of sodium chlorate and iron powder, opening the oxygen supply for all the masks in the compartment. Oxygen production cannot be shut off once a mask is pulled, and oxygen production typically lasts at least 15 minutes, sufficient for the plane to descend to a safe altitude for breathing without supplemental oxygen. During the production of oxygen, the generator becomes extremely hot and a burning smell may be noted and cause alarm among passengers, but this smell is a normal part of the chemical reaction. "For any aircraft which carries more than a very few passengers, the weight, complexity, and maintenance issues associated with a compressed gas system would be prohibitive. As a consequence, the industry relies on chemical oxygen generators.
Did You Know That Airplane Masks Are Not Connected To Any Oxygen Source?
A chemical oxygen generator system is connected to all masks in the compartment. Pulling down on one oxygen mask removes the firing pin of the generator igniting a mixture of sodium chlorate and iron powder, opening the oxygen supply for all the masks in the compartment. Oxygen production cannot be shut off once a mask is pulled, and oxygen production typically lasts at least 15 minutes, sufficient for the plane to descend to a safe altitude for breathing without supplemental oxygen. During the production of oxygen, the generator becomes extremely hot and a burning smell may be noted and cause alarm among passengers, but this smell is a normal part of the chemical reaction. "For any aircraft which carries more than a very few passengers, the weight, complexity, and maintenance issues associated with a compressed gas system would be prohibitive. As a consequence, the industry relies on chemical oxygen generators.