Transcript Buoyancy Compensator

Buoyancy Compensator
Objectives
• Identify the safety features of a buoyancy
compensator.
• Compare various styles of buoyancy
compensators.
• Describe proper adjustment of buoyancy
compensator straps and belts.
• Describe proper maintenance of a
buoyancy compensator.
• Describe techniques for dealing with a
stuck low-pressure inflator.
Safety features
• Low pressure inflator
• CO2 cartridge
– Old School Rare today
• Overpressure relief valve
• Whistle
Horse Collar
• Rarely seen today.
• Safest in that it floats an unconscious
diver in a supine position.
• Does not incorporate the backpack
– Separate backpack required
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•
Very bulky in the front of the diver
May be least comfortable style when
used for scuba
Jacket
• Floats a diver in an upright position on
the surface
• Incorporates flotation over the shoulders
and around the rib cage
• Typically not adjustable so fit can be an
issue
– Some divers feel this is more secure.
– Some divers feel this style provides better
balance in the water.
Vest
– Floats the diver in an upright position
– Typically has adjustable shoulder straps
– Incorporates flotation around the rib cage
Back inflation/BackPlate with wing
•
May float the diver in face down position
– Incorporates floatation in a horseshoe
around the tank
– Very streamlined in front
– Very stable when swimming on the stomach
Weight Integrated
• The weight system is incorporated in the
BC.
– The weight system must have a quick
release mechanism.
•
Available in various styles
Backpacks
• Hard
• Soft
Lift Capacity
•
Large capacity
–
–
•
Typically used in cold water or by technical
divers with heavy equipment
More bulk means more drag
Lower Capacity
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Typically used in warm water
Less bulk means more streamlined and
less drag
More convenient for travel
Adjustment of straps and belts
• Straps and belts should be snug but allow
you to breathe when BC is fully inflated
Maintenance
• Empty out salt water
• Fresh water rinse inside and out, including
valves and inflator
• Store partially inflated
B.C. Auto-Inflating
•
Cause
–
•
Low Pressure inflator mechanism sticking
Remedy
–
Perform a controlled ascent while venting air from
the BC.
If possible, pull out and twist inflator button
Disconnect hose and orally inflate B.C. as
necessary
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If you have not maintained an adequate level of skill
and comfort for orally inflating your BC while
underwater, abort the dive.
Prevention
–
–
Maintenance
Keep Low Pressure Inflator (LPI) assembly out of
sand
B.C will not hold air
• Abort the dive
• If necessary ditch your weight system
– Should not be necessary if you are properly
weighted.
• The BC plays a major role in your comfort
during a dive.
• Maintain your BC properly and it will last
your for years of diving.
Objectives
• Identify the safety features of a buoyancy
compensator.
• Compare various styles of buoyancy
compensators.
• Describe proper adjustment of buoyancy
compensator straps and belts.
• Describe proper maintenance of a
buoyancy compensator.
• Describe techniques for dealing with a
stuck low-pressure inflator.