highFlow

Highflow, or high flow, is a term used in several technical domains to describe systems that move fluids or gases at higher-than-average rates for a given application. The exact meaning and specifications vary by field, but the common idea is greater throughput than a baseline design. The term is often used in medical, engineering, and industrial contexts, and may also appear in branding to signal enhanced capacity.

In medicine, high-flow oxygen therapy refers to delivering heated, humidified gas at high flow rates, typically through nasal cannulae. The most widely used form is high-flow nasal cannula (HFNC) therapy. Adult flow rates commonly range from 30 to 60 liters per minute, with adjustable oxygen concentration (FiO2). The approach can improve oxygenation, reduce work of breathing, and may generate a degree of positive airway pressure. HFNC is used for acute hypoxemic respiratory failure, peri-extubation support, and other respiratory conditions where conventional oxygen therapy is insufficient. Potential drawbacks include nasal discomfort and, in some cases, delayed recognition of deterioration, making careful monitoring essential.

In engineering and industry, high-flow design denotes components that maximize throughput, such as high-flow filtration units capable of moving large volumes of air or liquid while maintaining filtration efficiency, high-flow intake and exhaust components for engines and turbines, and high-flow valves and pumps used in manufacturing, irrigation, and process industries. High-flow configurations are often paired with controls to avoid excessive pressure or flow that could damage equipment or destabilize systems.

The term is widely used in product branding as an indicator of increased capacity, but there is no universal standard for what constitutes “high flow.” Interpretation depends on context and the relevant field.