DEFLATION METHODS. Aqua Lung Black Diamond

18 Black Diamond Owner’s Manual

WARNING: Do not rely on the power inflator as the only means to inflate your BC. It is important to practice the technique for orally inflating your BC so that you are prepared for any type of malfunction or out of air situation that could render the power inflator inoperable. You may otherwise be unable to achieve positive buoyancy in an emergency, which could lead to serious injury or death.

DEFLATION METHODS

Throughout the course of a dive, it will be necessary to release air from the BC using one of the three methods described in the following instructions. Each method uses a valve that is in a different location. The method you choose at any time may depend on whether you are making your initial descent feet-first, head-first, or maintaining neutral buoyancy underwater. Always remember to utilize the valve that is at the highest point on the bladder, depending on your position in the water.

Deflation via Oral Inflator

To deflate the BC using the oral inflator, lift the Powerline inflator body to its highest possible position (above the head). Press the oral inflator button (Fig. 16b, previous page) to start venting air. This method is most effective on the surface when starting the initial descent.

Deflation via Dual Exhaust Valve

Inside the power inflator’s corrugated hose is a cable that attaches the power inflator to the dual valve at the top of the airway assembly (Fig

18e, previous page ). You can vent air from the BC by firmly pulling straight down on the power inflator, or on the Trim Grip ™ handle that is provided with the Air Source (refer to Air Source Manual).

This exhaust valve provides an effective and convenient way to vent air from the BC while in either an upright or facedown swimming position.

It also functions as an overpressure relief (OPR) valve that will open automatically to relieve air pressure inside the bladder when it reaches approximately 2.5 psi (.17 bar) over the surrounding water pressure. This feature is very critical for preventing stress or damage to the BC’s bladder.

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