In Europe divers should be aware that there have been changes to European Standard EN250. This Standard concerns the manufacture of underwater breathing apparatus. The changes concern how alternate air sources are used. As equipment manufactured under the requirements of the previous version of the standard will be around for many years, the implentation of … Continue reading Alternative Air Source – New Guidelines
Queue for the Dive Lift
The dive lift is a standard accessory to any good dive boat these days. I had one fitted as soon as I purchased the boat. Just because, I felt it was no longer a luxury but something that should be part of any good dive operation. The first dive lift I came across was in … Continue reading Queue for the Dive Lift
Compressed Air Purity for divers
Standard BSEN12021 Compressed air used by divers should conform to BS EN12021. This standard gives the basic parameters for the composition of the air and the limitfor for contaminants that are often found in breathing air. These limits are based on a value that is 10% of the 8-hour time weighted average in the workplace … Continue reading Compressed Air Purity for divers
Cylinder – Hydro Test
A hydro static or hydro test is performed once every 5 years on diving cylinders. Before the Hydro test the cylinder will need to be visually inspected. You may want to read the post on the visual test Step 1 - Fill with water The cylinder is filled with water. Liquid is used as it … Continue reading Cylinder – Hydro Test
Cylinder – Visual Test
A visual test or inspection of a diving cylinder is made before a hydrostatic test is made. It is also done half way between the hydrostatic test cycle to verify the condition of the cylinder. You may also want to read about the Hydrostatic test next, or the taking the cylinder valve apart Step 1 … Continue reading Cylinder – Visual Test
Cylinder Testing – Cylinder Valve
The first part of a cylinder test whether it is hydrostatic or visual is to remove and disassemble the valve. Step 1 - Remove the handle This is done with a special flat bladed tool that straddles the centre thread. This one is in fact made from a flat bit. This is done so that … Continue reading Cylinder Testing – Cylinder Valve
Regulator Servicing – 1st stage Assembly
Now that all the parts are cleaned we can start the process of assembly. First we get all the parts and tools together. Step 1 - Diaphragm End Take the main body and drop the mushroom into the body. The diaphragm can then be pushed into place and the metal disk that the spring sits … Continue reading Regulator Servicing – 1st stage Assembly
Regulator Servicing – 1st stage Cleaning
Inspection The reason to service a regulator is to maintain it in first class working order. To keep the regulator working the parts that deteriorate with age such as O'rings and the parts that wear with use need to be replaced. It is also an opportunity to inspect all the parts for damage. The picture … Continue reading Regulator Servicing – 1st stage Cleaning
Regulator Servicing – 1st stage Disassembly
A starting point is the need to service some regulators. The ones shown are all Apeks regulators. (Actually there is also a domiflow oxygen valve on the right). These regulators are typical of diaphragm first stages. Other manufacturers will look very different but on the whole the principle of operation is the same and the … Continue reading Regulator Servicing – 1st stage Disassembly
Equipment
Database on diving equipment created