Scuba diving is an art of diving underwater. The divers use an underwater breathing apparatus called scuba which helps in breathing underwater. This differs from other types of diving, like breath hold or breathing supplied from the surface. The scuba divers carry their own source of breathing gas which allows them greater freedom of movement.
The following is a list of equipment used for scuba diving:
Breathing Gear
This equipment is used by the divers to help them to breathe underwater. It is transported by the diver itself underground. There are two types of masks half mask and full face mask. The recreational divers use half-mask which covers the diver’s eyes and nose, and a mouthpiece to supply the breathing gas from the re-breath. Professional scuba divers use the full face mask, which also protects the diver’s airway, if the diver loses his / her consciousness.
Open-Circuit Scuba
Open circuit scuba has no provision for using breathing gas more than once for respiration. The gas inhaled is exhaled to the environment or to another equipment to increase the buoyancy. The breathing gas is provided from a diving cylinder through a scuba regulator.
Re-breather
Re-breath vents off all exhaled gases for reuse by removing the carbon dioxide. Re-breath releases no gas bubbles into the water. It is more expensive and complex than open-circuit scuba.
Gas Mixtures
The gas mixture other than the normal atmospheric air can be used as long as the diver is used to it. The most commonly used gas mixture is nitrox.
The Propulsion Vehicle
Personal mobility can be enhanced by fins. These fins have a large blade area which is more efficient for propulsion and manoeuvring thrust than arm and hand movement.
The Buoyancy Control Device
This device gives you the opportunity to have complete control of your movement underwater. In this way, you can have any position underwater comfortably.
Diving Mask and Diving Lights
The diving mask provides air space in front of the diver’s eyes. The artificial light is used to provide light in the darkness.
Dry and Wet Suits
To prevent heat loss in the cold water can be prevented by wetsuits and dry suits. These suits also protect you from sunburns, abrasions and rings of the marine organisms.
Underwater Navigation and Monitoring
To avoid the decompression sickness, the depth and shallowness of the water must be known by the diver. Initially, it was done by using a depth gauge and a diving watch but nowdays it is done with the dive computers.
Extra Accessories and Personal Tools
Camera, flash, video lights for underwater photography and videography. A drybox for keeping wallets and cell phone.
Scuba diving is really a thrilling experience. This should be attempted with the right equipment to conquer the underwater world.
Raj Kumar