COMPONENTS FOR MEDICAL CIRCUITS

Abstract An expiratory limb suitable for use in a breathing circuit, the expiratory limb comprising: a first opening configured to receive a gas at a first temperature and a first relative humidity; a second opening configured to allow the gas to exit the limb, the gas having a second temperature and a second relative humidity; a conduit comprising a first end proximal the first opening, a second end proximal the second opening, and a wall extending between the first end and the second end and defining a lumen within through which, when in use, gas flows in the direction of the first end toward the second end, and wherein at least a part of said wall comprises a breathable material configured to allow transmission of water vapor but substantially prevent transmission of liquid water; and at least one heating element provided along the conduit, the at least one heating element being configured to generate or apply more heat to a section of the conduit near the first end compared to heat generated or applied to another section of the conduit closer to the second end.