O2 for Wing Inflation

txdiver

txdiver

Member
Hi,

I think I heard divers mention in the past that they used O2 for wing inflation. The reason was simply based on the configuration and gases they carried - not for any other "lift advantage".
If anybody on this forum is or has been doing so, what precaution if any did you take ( like cleaning the power inflator or ...). I think with the low IP of the O2 reg most dangers are mitigated but I would like some input before I venture down this path.

Thanks

Andy
 
Use diluent unless it is an expensive trimix and then I would run it from one of the offboard nitrox tanks.

In some places getting decent amounts and pressures of oxygen can be difficult.

Keep O2 for deco.
 
On extended trips with deep dives I often run a larger drysuit bottle and then run the wing from that also.
 
thats what we do, we have a 19cf tank mounted that feeds wing and drysuit, but we fill with argon. We used to run with a 13cf, but on a deep deep dive, wouldnt have much reserve.
 
i would also rather get a pony bottle with air to run the wing (and the suit) instead of using o2... the power inflator is just one part of the equation, you also have the bladder of the wing, the fittings and all... they are simply not made to be exposed to 100% o2, so we can only speculate what risks might occur.
 
Thanks for everybody's feedback. I am pretty familiar with most conventional and even more specific set-ups in re DIL and suit/wing inflation. I am playing around with a different configuration of an SF2 on a rack for deeper open ocean dives while trying to maintain the lowest practical (= safe) profile. In order to have clean hose routing I was planing to fill the wing from the O2 side and the suit from a 6cf as usual. I am trying to avoid what Richard suggested - I am not sure how successful I will be ... What I did not mention is that I will carry 2 50cf tanks - one with O2, the other "cave-filled" with DIL/deep bail-out ...

In short though, my suspicion was confirmed that it is doable due to low IP etc. etc.

Thanks

Andy
 
Andy, if you inflate wing oxygen -you have two news. The bad - in oxygen few matherials degradate faster than in air. The good news: wing with oxygen - you emergency source of breathing. But better decision of coure - use pony bottle(insurance) and Sodastream 300g/600g cylynders-they easy refillable.
 
Halzan ... thanks for your input ... the Sodastream cylinder idea seems intriguing ... do you have any experience with that and possible pictures of a set-up (valve, reg etc.)
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top