Using a Scuba Diving Tank
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The scuba diving tank is the most essential piece of diving equipment. Without access to the compressed air that the tank holds divers would not be able to stay submerged for any prolonged period of time. For this reason it is critical that any diver know the basics of maintaining, regulating and monitoring the scuba diving tank.
Contrary to common belief, a scuba diving tank is not just an oxygen tank. In fact, it could be referred to more accurately as a nitrogen tank since a scuba diving tank actually contains 21 percent oxygen and 79 percent nitrogen. This is the same mixture that you breathe normally when on land. Pure oxygen would be deadly, especially at shallow depths. Compressed air, on the other hand, is toxic only beyond 200 feet, thus making it safe for recreational diving.
* Specifications of a Scuba Diving Tank
Most of the time, a recreational scuba diving tank will be made out of aluminum and can in fact contain 80 cubic feet of air that is compressed into an area of two feet in height and six inches in diameter. Eighty cubic feet of air is normally filled from 2000 to 3000 psi (pounds per inch) of air pressure. In addition, the scuba diving tank is regulated by the U.S. Department of Transportation as well as some other foreign agencies and regulations that necessitate that the scuba diving tank be inspected periodically as well as undergo pressure tests to ensure maximum safety for the diver.
To use a scuba diving tank, one must ensure that it is filled from a reputable dive shop and one should inquire as to where the shop compressor’s air intake pipe is and make sure that it is properly located. Since air expands when it exists in hot conditions do not leave the filled tank in a heated up car.
* Transporting Scuba Diving Tanks in Cars
Special precautions need to be taken when transporting a scuba diving tank or pony bottle. If the valve on a scuba diving tank gets damaged, the tank would be propelled in the opposite direction.
- The most important thing to do is to wedge your tank between other items in the rear of your vehicle to make certain the tank will not move.
- If there are multiple tanks, make sure that they are not able to touch each others valves.
- We recommend having them face the front of the car for safety reasons, though sometimes others have them facing back for easier removal from the vehicle.
- Another important precaution when moving your scuba diving tank is to inspect the O-ring for any defects. This can be done by removing the protective valve cap.
* Traveling by Air with your Scuba Diving Tank
To be able to fly with your scuba tank or pony bottle, you must first empty them and remove the valve. The regulator must be completely removed from the cylinder and the cylinder is unsealed. In case the rules change in the future, here are the TSA Rules for Transporting Scuba Tanks. Printing this out for air travel is recommended.
* Scuba Diving Tank Safety Tips
Here are a few easy safety reminders for your scuba tank:
- Treat your tank with care: avoid sudden impacts and dents as this is going to be your life line underwater.
- Securing your tank when possible is recommended so it doesn’t get knocked over (and possibly damaged).
- Always make sure seals are clean (regulator and tank valve) before attaching. You want to be certain sand is not present.
There are many more important safety steps that should be accounted for when handling your scuba diving tank. You will need to receive instructions from a certified trainer to ensure that you know all the pertinent information to handle your scuba diving tank correctly.
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