Yes Chris, the Engstrom CS (Carestation) like most ventilators, does require at least 160 L/M for each gas and has a peak inspiratory flow rate of 180 L/M. That does not mean the gas consumption would be that high as inspiratory flow is approximately 1/3 of the respiratory cycle and depending upon the settings, the flow may vary during inspiration. There can be a huge difference between vent flow rates and actual volume of gas consumed. It would be rare for the vent to be used at the 21% 02 setting, which would require the inspiratory flow entirely from the med air source. That said, wall outlet flow must meet the vent (and NFPA 99 critical care) requirements. What I call “pneumatic capacitance” (another discussion altogether) would also play a part in the wall outlet flowrate.

The best and most cost-effective solution for this facility would be to order the Engstrom CS with the optional on-board air compressor or if already purchased have the optional compressor installed in their existing vent(s). Then use the 3 x 3 manifold for emergency backup, with a good supply of med air cylinders in storage.

A worst-case scenario, with one vent set at 21% 02 and with high patient minute volume, each side of the 3 x 3 air manifold could last a day or less, therefore in my view is not a good option. 

George

Just curious, is the GE Engstrom CS a specialty ventilator?

 We had a country hospital with the same problem and they used ventilators from time to time and their source of supply was remote and not large enough.  We ended up putting in an oxygen generator that could produce oxygen continuously and that resolved the problem.