The first question most buyers ask about a hyperbaric chamber is pressure: 1.5 ATA or 2.0 ATA. This guide explains what the numbers mean and how pressure drives everything else about the chamber, from shell type to room planning.
What ATA means
ATA stands for atmospheres absolute. At sea level we live at 1.0 ATA. A chamber at 1.5 ATA holds one and a half times that pressure; at 2.0 ATA, twice. Breathing concentrated oxygen under pressure lets more oxygen dissolve directly into the blood plasma, which is the basis of hyperbaric oxygen therapy. For a short definition, see What is ATA?.
The three classes of chamber
- Soft shell chambers are inflatable and work at lower pressure. They are light and portable, and suit entry level wellness use.
- Hard shell wellness chambers are rigid cabins, typically from about 1.5 ATA up to 2.0 ATA. The Alteon range includes seated cabins at 1.5 and 1.9 ATA and the AL3V36 lying chamber at up to 2.0 ATA.
- Medical chambers are certified clinical systems; the Alteon modular platforms reach up to 6 ATA (ModuO2) or 3 ATA (HyperFlex) and seat up to 21 people.
When 1.5 ATA makes sense
A 1.5 ATA hard shell cabin is a common choice for gyms, wellness centres and recovery lounges that run general recovery, energy and longevity programmes. The cabin is simpler to plan, and sessions are comfortable for first time guests.
When 1.9 to 2.0 ATA makes sense
Longevity clinics and recovery centres that want deeper protocols often choose 1.9 to 2.0 ATA. More oxygen dissolves into the plasma per session, without moving up to a medical chamber. Expect a heavier cabin and more attention to room planning; see HBOT room and power requirements.
When you need a medical chamber
Hospitals and clinics treating patients need certified medical chambers, operated under medical supervision. Check certifications such as ASME U Stamp, PVHO-1, NFPA-99 and FDA 510(k) clearance, which the Alteon Aero Pulse chambers list.
Other questions to ask besides pressure
- Seated or lying, and how many guests per session
- Oxygen delivery: integrated concentrator and breathing system
- Entertainment and communication inside the cabin, which help guests complete sessions
- Footprint, weight and access to your room
- Local commissioning, staff training, warranty and AMC
TechFit is the authorised distributor of Alteon in India. Compare the Alteon hyperbaric chambers or talk to us about the pressure and format that suit your clients.