SCUBA diving is an activity that you do completely underwater compared to snorkeling near the surface. The equipment that you use while diving is important for your survival. You should understand all of the parts before attempting this activity. Diving equipment has parts that can fail. Check all parts regularly and learn how to deal with any malfunctions.
Tank
The air tank or cylinder has compressed air for breathing underwater. A tank valve located on the neck lets you attach the first stage regulator to deliver the air through a hose. It also lets you turn the air supply on or off. The tank valve has an O-ring to make a tight seal with the regulator. It this part malfunctions, air can escape and you will not be able to dive. Check the O-ring before diving to make sure it does not have any cracks, and always bring a spare O-ring for the air tank.
Regulator
One of the most important parts of SCUBA gear is the regulator, which supplies air from the tank at the right pressure for breathing underwater. The regulator has parts such as the first stage, attached directly to the tank, and the second stage or demand valve, which fits in your mouth. The first stage reduces air from the tank to a lower pressure before it goes into the air hose. First stage also has a valve that controls air flow based on the amount of air that you take in. The second stage reduces the air pressure in the hose to the same pressure as the surrounding water, which lets you breathe normally.
Mask
The mask lets you see underwater while you are diving. Main parts are a lightweight frame made from plastic or metal with a single glass lens or two removable lenses. Many types are available such as classic one-pane design, full face masks for commercial diving, side view lenses and corrective lenses. All diving masks have a strap and buckles. Make sure that these fit comfortably before diving.
Fins
Fins help you swim underwater while diving. Standard parts are the foot-pocket fin, which fits like a rubber shoe, or the heel-strap fin that fits like a slipper with a strap on the back. All fins have a blade with ridges or curves to help you move through the water.
Suit
Diving suits protect you from the environment. They can be tight-fitting wet or semidry suits. All suits come in one or two pieces with hoods and boots or bootees. Other parts are gloves and kneepads to protect you from abrasion, spine pads to let water flow through your back, pockets to hold things and zippers at the wrist and ankle for easy dressing.
References
- "Eyewitness Companions: Scuba Diving"; Monty Halls & Miranda Krestovnikoff; Dorling Kindersley; 2006
- "Complete Diving Manual"; Jack Jackson and McGraw Hill; 2005
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