Components and Safety Measures of Modern SCUBA Diving

Carl Wesneski

A self-contained underwater breathing apparatus (SCUBA) is a set of portable equipment that

allows for breath and movement underwater without needing to stay close to the surface. The
SCUBA set includes the following:
• Air Tank: A gas cylinder that stores breathable oxygen.
• Pressure Regulator: A device that transports the air from the tank to the diver’s mouth.
• Buoyancy Control Device: A jacket that helps control the diver's floating or sinking.
Used together, the set allows divers to breathe underwater and safely explore the depths without
being connected to a surface air supply.

History

Unlike early diving methods that relied on air pumped from the surface, modern SCUBA
diving gear has revolutionized underwater exploration. To understand the significant leap
forward that SCUBA represents, an exploration of its’ historical origins is necessary.

Early History:
The origins of breathing underwater began with the invention of
the diving bell. Pioneered by Edmond Halley in the 17th century, the
design trapped air at the top, creating an air-filled chamber that supplied
divers with oxygen. Figure 1 showcases an example of how this works.
This pocket of breathable air allowed divers limited access to the
underwater world and the ability to do basic tasks. Though rudimentary,
this invention ultimately led to the development of our modern-day
equipment.

Advancements:
In contrast to early diving, which depended
on an air supply that came from the surface, modern Figure 1: Components of a
diving bell.
diving employs the use of a self-contained
underwater breathing apparatus. Jacques Cousteau,
whose invention can be seen on the left, made this concept possible in 1943
with the creation of the Aqua-Lung. This innovation provided divers with a
portable air supply, fundamentally transforming our interactions with the
underwater world.
Figure 2: The Aqua-Lung.
Modern Equipment

Many advancements have been made in the time since Cousteau’s Aqua-Lung. The integral set of
equipment for modern scuba diving is the air tank, pressure regulator, and buoyancy
compensator device.

Air Tank:
The pressurized air tank is what allows for unencumbered movement underwater. Valve
Typically constructed with aluminum or steel, these cylinders are designed to withstand
immense pressure. Held within the tank is compressed air, which can reach up to
several thousand pounds per square inch. This high pressure allows for a
significant volume of air to be stored in a compact container, and divers can reach
Figure 3:
up to two hours underwater with just one tank.
Air Tank
with valve
The most important and delicate part of the tank is the valve. The valve, on top
which can be seen labeled in figure 3, is used to both fill the tank with air and to
breathe out while underwater. As most tank failures are related to the valve, special
care must be taken to ensure safety. Current regulations require an annual visual
inspection, as well as a pressure test every five years. Without confirmation for
both tests, you will be unable to refill the tank with air.

Pressure Regulator:
Connected to the tank is the pressure regulator. Delivering the air supply from the tank to
the diver, the regulator is what makes breathing underwater possible. Represented in figure 4, the
pressure regulator operates on a two-stage mechanism: first, it reduces the high-pressure air from
the tank to an intermediate pressure. Then, it further reduces
this to the ambient pressure around the diver, ensuring a
safe and controlled air supply.. Controlling this airflow
allows for effortless inhaling and exhaling. As the diver
inhales, the regulator releases air from the tank, ensuring a First stage
consistent and regulated supply. When exhaling, it closes to
prevent any air from escaping back into the environment.
This automated process guarantees that the diver receives a
continuous and controlled stream of air.

Pressure regulators should be serviced every year to Second stage

maintain safety. This regular servicing involves a thorough
inspection, cleaning, and testing of all components to identify Figure 4: Pressure regulator
any wear, damage, or potential issues. During the service,
technicians also check critical safety features to verify their proper operation. The regulator's
response to varying pressures and airflow rates are tested, confirming its ability to deliver a
consistent and controlled air supply to the diver. Adhering to this routine maintenance schedule is
fundamental to dive safety and extends the lifespan of the regulator, guaranteeing a reliable and
safe breathing experience for every dive.
Low pressure hose
Buoyancy Control Device:
The buoyancy control device (BCD) gives the diver Figure 5:
control while underwater. Connected to the tank via a low- Buoyancy
pressure hose, the diver can add or release air into the BCD as compensator
needed. Inflating the BCD increases buoyancy, allowing the diver device
to ascend in the water, while deflating enhances descent.

The primary function of the BCD is to maintain a state

where the diver is neither ascending nor descending. This action is
crucial as rapid ascents can cause serious harm. Allowing the diver to release air from the BCD
helps prevent uncontrolled ascents. Rapid ascents can cause injuries such as barotrauma, lung
overexpansion injuries, and decompression sickness. Properly deflating the BCD in a controlled
manner ensures a gradual and safe ascent.

Conclusion

The self-contained underwater breathing apparatus is a combination of the essential

components of the air tank, pressure regulator, and buoyancy control device. Safety is essential
with each piece of equipment, and when used together a delicate balance is created. Regular
maintenance and safety knowledge for every element is necessary for a safe and enjoyable
experience.
 Citations

Figure 1: https://manoa.hawaii.edu/exploringourfluidearth/physical/ocean-depths/diving-
technology
Figure 2: https://www.interestingfacts.org.uk/what-is-the-aqualung/
Figure 3: https://www.divers-supply.com/faber-low-pressure-silver-steel-tank.html#136=4948
Figure 4: https://www.xsscuba.com/regulators/highland-vortex-regulator
Figure 5: https://www.scuba.com/blog/scuba-gear-basics-buoyancy-compensators/