Attaining Neutral Buoyancy
One of the main things that scuba BC's help us divers do is maintain a neutral buoyancy in the water. This means that during your dive you will remain at a neutral level in the water without sinking to the bottom or floating at the surface.
This state of equilibrium is achieved through the movement of gas. The divers weight and volume are balanced evenly. Gas will move into the BC if the diver gets heavy and will alternately discharge if they are too buoyant.
The internal gas inside of the divers body and inside of the equipment will constrict as they descend and will expand as they rise to the surface. Being able to maintain this counterbalance of gases will allow the diver to maintain neutral buoyancy thus making their dive much easier and more enjoyable.
What Does A BCD Do For You?
A BCD is crucial part of any diving equipment used for your journey under the sea. Without one you would not be able to either rest or swim on the surface of the water. It will contain the entire scuba system and keep it on you while letting you adjust buoyancy levels after the dive.
It contains shoulder and waist adjustments that fit to each individuals body. Most newer BC's allow for integrated weight systems to
accommodate your weight instead of using a separate belt. This way you can dump weights more easily with the release of each weight pocket.
The inflation/deflation system will allow you to inflate the BC while the air is connected to the tank. Most of the newer BC's have an overpressure valve that will open so you will not overinflate.
Features Included in BCD
There are many different kinds of BCD's on the market nowadays and they all have different features associated with them. The following are some of the features that are necessary to every BCD:
- A line that will move the gas from the cylinder and regulator to the BCD.
- Vent valves, either at the top or bottom, that allow the bladders to collapse
- The main valve that permits gas into the bladders for expansion
- An overpressurization valve that compensates for overinflation
- An integrated weight system with the BCD and weight belt combined.
Sherwood Scuba Axis BCD
There are some extremely innovative regulators and buoyancy compensators that have hit the market, more specifically, the Sherwood. One contains a 3-D air cell that provides enough buoyant lift even in cool waters. The harness system is compact and reduces clutter. The shape is that of a warm water BC, but this one can handle cooler climates as well. It contains a small pocket, buckle, a stainless steel D-ring, and signal tube pocket. It is very comfortable and adjustable because of a padded backpack and a collar made of neoprene. This is truly a delightful combination of streamlined gear along with a luxurious feel that will satisfy even the most persnickety diver to the core!
|