SCUBATECH User Instruction Manual Buoyancy compensators Range of models Tecline Donut 15, 17, 22 Tecline Donut (17, 22, 30) Special Edition Tecline Donut 22 Special Edition Rebreather Tecline Peanut 21 Issue 2015/1 1
Contents: 1. Introduction 2. Important Warming/alerts 3. Application and use 4. Construction 5. Before using 6. Handling during a dive 7. Use in cold water 8. Handling after completing a dive, maintenance and storage 9. Warranty 10. Manufacturer s details 11. Notes Copyright notice This manual is protected by copyright. All rights reserved. The copying, reproduction, translation or recording on electronic media, in whole or in part, without written permission is prohibited by the Scubatech company. Bouyancy compensator User Instruction Manual Range of models: Tecline Donut 15, 17, 22 Tecline Donut (17, 22, 30) Special Edition Tecline Donut 22 Special Edition Rebreather Tecline Peanut 21 2015 Scubatech Sp. z o.o. 2
Welcome to the world of Scubatech products. Congratulations on your purchase of a buoyancy compensator. We believe that you will be satisfied and able to enjoy the performance of our equipment, developed together with our customers and produced using advanced technology. Thank you for your choice and we wish you many safe dives. 1. Introduction Prior to initial use, the Scubatech buoyancy compensator User Instruction Manual should be read in detail and all the information presented within it should be understood. Compliance, understanding and reference to it is a condition for safe and long-term use of the products presented in this manual.. It is recommended to keep this manual for the lifetime of the product. Scubatech buoyancy compensators can only be used in a way presented in this manual. In view of the important role the buoyancy compensator plays during the dive, it requires care from the owner/user. In order for performance and the lifetime of the compensator to be maximized, it is necessary to fulfill the recommendations made in this manual. The manufacturer hopes that the usage qualities of Subtech buoyancy compensators will give users a lot of satisfaction and make diving enjoyable. ScubaTech is not liable for damages resulting from non-compliance within the provisions contained in this manual. 2. Important warnings/alerts Scuba diving is a potentially dangerous activity. The buoyancy compensator user instruction manual is not a substitute for specialist training in terms of diving conducted by a qualified instructor. All buoyancy compensators presented in this manual have undergone a certification process within the notified body of Polish Register of Shipping (Polski Rejestr Statków S.A.) and meet the requirements of Directive 89/686 / EEC and PN-EN 1809: 2014-09 pertaining to diving equipment. Buoyancy compensator. Functional 3
requirements and safety test methods. The CE mark indicates compliance with certain requirements, and the number 1463 next to the CE mark is the identification code of the Polish Register of Shipping (Polski Rejestr Statków S.A.). There may be additional requirements for the use of buoyancy compensators in countries which are not members of the European Union. Before using Scubatech products determine the current requirements in force in the country in which you intend to use them. The content of this manual is based on the knowledge available at the time of going to print. Scubatech reserves the right to make changes at any time. Before every dive, make careful inspection the buoyancy compensator to make sure that there is no visible damage and leaks, and all components are working properly. In case of damage or malfunction, please contact Scubatech. Scubatech buoyancy compensators can only be used with cylinders having legalization compatible with current requirements in force in the country in which you intend to use it. When using the compensator in water at low temperatures (below 10 C (50 F), it is necessary to take into account the possibility of freezing and anomalies in the functioning of the inflator. Before diving in cold water, it is necessary to practice emergency procedures in case of the inflator freezing. The buoyancy compensator is not used for lifting heavy objects from the surface of the water. This can lead to damage to the compensator and uncontrolled ascent leading to the loss of health or life. In the case of an uncontrolled ascent, you should start letting the air out of the buoyancy compensator in order to reduce speed and to achieve neutral buoyancy. Never Breathe in the air accumulated inside the buoyancy compensator. It may be of the wrong composition, contain harmful substances or dangerous bacteria that can cause illness or even death. 4
Never lift or carry the buoyancy compensator by holding the inflator. This can lead to the damage of the compensator. In order to avoid an uncontrolled dive, you must be able to benefit from the supplementary source of buoyancy during each dive. The buoyancy compensator cannot be the only source of buoyancy in use during the dive. Never leave your buoyancy compensator in sunlight for long periods, high temperature or near sharp objects. This can lead to the damage of the compensator. The buoyancy compensator is not a safety jacket: and therefore does not guarantee the user's head to be up at the surface. The buoyancy compensator is not a safety jacket or another means of rescue. ScubaTech shall not be liable for buoyancy compensator malfunctions if they have been subjected to misuse or using unauthorized spare parts or service made by an unauthorized person. 3. Application and use The buoyancy compensators presented in this manual apply to recreational diving as well as technical. They are designed to maintain the neutral buoyancy of the diver, and are helpful in keeping the diver in a horizontal position during the stay under water. Buoyancy compensators are designed for use with a single cylinder or air cylinder, with cylinder pressure of up to 30 MPa (300 psi). By contrast, the Techline Donut 22 Special Edition rebreather is designed for diving with cameras with a closed or semiclosed respiratory factor. 5
4. Construction Buoyancy compensators presented in this manual have several capacities and are made in several versions. The capacity of buoyancy compensators may be 15, 17, 22 or 30 dm 3. Buoyancy compensators with a capacity of 17 and 22 dm 3 are also produced as a Special Edition version. Furthermore, as outlined above, the buoyancy compensator with a capacity of 22 dm 3 is also produced as a version for diving with cameras, with a closed or semi-closed respiratory factor and carries additional Rebreather markings. Scubatech buoyancy compensators are designed and manufactured in such a way that they can be used with any harness, having mounting hole spacing of 11 inches. Scubatech recommends using one of several harnesses within its range. Further information about the harness can be obtained from authorized Scubatech representatives. Individual models of buoyancy compensators presented in this manual are shown in the pictures listed below. Donut 15 Donut 17 6
Donut 17 Special Edition Donut 22 Donut 22 Special Edition Donut 22 Special Edition Rebreather 7
Donut 30 Peanut 21 Figure 1. Tecline Donut buoyancy compensator series models used The basic components of this compensator: buoyancy bag, inflator, medium pressure hose, pressure relief valve. A very important element is the buoyancy compensator inflator which consists of an inflator button, which allows the buoyancy compensator to be filled with air and the deflator button which allows the buoyancy compensator to be emptied of air contained in its interior and nozzle which also enables air to be emptied from the interior of the buoyancy compensator. Thanks to this, it is possible to fill the buoyancy compensator with your mouth (orally).. These elements are shown in the pictures listed below 8
Bouyancy bag inflator medium pressure hose Pressure relief valve Figure 2. Basic components of the buoyancy compensator 5. Before using IMPORTANT Scubatech recommends the commissioning of the buoyancy compensator and pressure reducer to an authorized dealer for the proper connection of medium pressure power to the buoyancy compensator. The authorized dealer can also answer questions on the issues presented in this manual. 9
It is forbidden to attach the medium pressure power supply buoyancy compensator hose to high-pressure output of the pressure regulator and the use of any reductions on medium pressure hoses. Prior to each dive, it is necessary to carry out inspection procedures to ensure all components of the buoyancy compensator are functioning correctly. Even if you dived during a given day using the buoyancy compensator, check the functioning of all components before starting the dive. Failure to carry out the check by the user on all or one of its points can lead to dangerous circumstances, consequently the loss of health or life. In order to prepare the buoyancy compensator for use, it is necessary to follow these steps: visually check that none of the components of the compensator is damaged, paying particular attention to the condition of belts, fasteners, inflator, the outer shell compensator and medium pressure hose. check the connection to the harness of the buoyancy compensator, check the connection of the medium pressure hose to the inflator, check the correctness of tightness of the extraction-relief valves (the lower and upper), check the function of orally filling the compensator inserting the inflator nozzle in your mouth, and then pressing the deflator button while exhaling into compensator bag. Fill the buoyancy compensator in this way with at least half of its volume, check the function of orally filling the compensator by inserting the inflator nozzle in your mouth, and then pressing the deflator button while exhaling into compensator bag. Fill the buoyancy compensator in this way with at least half of its volume, check the correctness of functions manually by opening the release-valve by pulling the cord (strand). Pulling should cause air discharge which should immediately stop after releasing the cord, fill the buoyancy compensator using the inflator button, then press the deflator button and check if air comes out of the opening of the oral inflator. Repeat this step several times, press the inflator button until the relief valve is actuated and paying attention when releasing the deflator that the air flow immediately ceases. before diving, make sure that you have turned on the diving cylinder valve(s), ensure your buoyancy compensator is attached to the cylinder straps in a secure way. 10
Warning! Never use a buoyancy compensator, if: after 10 minutes from filling, there has been loss of air from the interior, you release the valve deflator, the airflow to the interior still occurs. 6. Handling during a dive Entering the water In order to provide buoyancy on the surface, fill the compensator with air before entering the water Upon activation of the pressure-relief valve, it is necessary to stop filling the compensator. Immersion In order to carry out immersion, press the deflator button while holding the inflator over your head. Observe the device measuring the depth and your partner so as to avoid uncontrolled immersion or losing your partner (diving group). Staying under water - buoyancy control While diving, try to maintain neutral buoyancy at a given depth, using the inflator or relief inflator if necessary. During the deflation of the buoyancy compensator, the inflator should be held above your head so that air can escape from the inside without obstacles. You can also pull the inflator in order to release the air inside the compensator; the air will then be brought out through a valve provided in the housing of the inflator. The construction of the buoyancy compensator has a tendency to place the diver in the so-called horizontal position. The position of the diver under water is, however, dependent on the distribution of the ballast and the skills of the diver. Warning! No buoyancy compensator has automatic buoyancy adjustment. During the ascent, adequately control the speed and let go of the expanding air from the interior of the compensator using the inflator (by pressing the deflator button, pulling the inflator) or through the release valve. The diver, who is in an upside down position, should drop the release valve located at the bottom of the buoyancy compensator. 11
In order to ensure the diver's buoyancy after emerging to the surface, fill the compensator using the deflator button. Upon activation of the extraction release valve, it is necessary to stop filling the compensator. 7. Use in cold water Diving in cold water requires completion of specialist training conducted by a qualified instructor. European CEN standardization norms define the cold water temperature as 10 C (50 F) or lower. In such conditions, particularly in fresh water whose temperature is above freezing, there is a risk of the buoyancy compensator inflator freezing. Most often it manifests itself in the steady flow of the respiratory factor inside the compensator and, consequently, to an uncontrolled ascent. The lower the ambient temperature is, the more likely the situation described above can occur. To reduce the risk of the buoyancy compensator inflator freezing, it is necessary to: avoid filling the air buoyancy compensator on the surface if the ambient temperature near 0 C and lower, stay on the surface as short as possible, before and during a dive when the air temperature is near 0 c and lower, Use clean and dry cylinders filled only in places authorized to do so. When using the compensator in water at a low temperature (below 10 C (50 F)) take into account the possibility of freezing and irregularities in the functioning of the inflator. Before diving in cold water, practice emergency procedures if necessary, in case the inflator freezes. 8. Handling after completing a dive, maintenance and storage Upon completion of a dive: disconnect the medium pressure hose from the inflator, disconnect the cylinder from the buoyancy compensator belts, fill the compensator orally using the deflator button, and turn the compensator in such a way that extraction-relief valve is at the lowermost part of the compensator. Then pull the cord of the extraction-relief valve while pressing the compensator with your hands, so that there is a flow of water through the open relief valve. Repeat the above steps until the removal of water from the 12
interior of the compensator, rinse the inside of the buoyancy compensator with clean, fresh water. To do this, press the deflator button and fill the buoyancy compensator with water to about 20% volume. Rotate the compensator several times and then pour out the interior of the water according to the procedure described above. rinse the outside of the buoyancy compensator in clean, fresh water. These activities are especially important after diving in salt or chlorinated water. in the event of diving in salty or contaminated water rinsing itself may not be sufficient for cleaning the buoyancy compensator thoroughly, which is why it is recommended that, where possible, the buoyancy compensator is soaked in warm fresh water for at least 1 hour, after rinsing the compensator inside and outside, it is necessary to empty the buoyancy of the bag through one of the pressure relief valves ensuring that all the water from the inside has been removed. Never lift or carry the buoyancy compensator inflator by holding it. This can lead to damage of the compensator. Leaving the cylinder/cylinder system unsecure can cause it to fall and damage the buoyancy compensator. Storage the buoyancy compensator should be kept suspended, partially filled in a dry, well ventilated place, away from heat sources and not exposed to direct sunlight and chemicals, the buoyancy compensator should be protected from the fumes of gasoline, oil, alcohol and other chemicals, the buoyancy compensator inflator should be loosely packed, without folds and twists, both during storage and during operation, the buoyancy compensator must be protected from mechanical damage, especially against impact, parts of the buoyancy compensator are subject to ageing and must be replaced every year, regardless of the frequency of use, prior to long-term storage of the buoyancy compensator, it is necessary to ensure that there is no water inside. 13
Care and Maintenance It is necessary to rinse the buoyancy compensator with clean, fresh water after diving in accordance with the procedure described above, the buoyancy compensator should be given an annual technical inspection carried out by authorized service, during repair and overhaul, only original spare parts should be used, after a long period of intensive use (the buoyancy compensator may need more frequent services depending on how often and in what environment it works), inspection and maintenance of the buoyancy compensator is recommended, It is necessary to carry out cleaning periodically, and in the case of contamination, buoyancy compensator cleaning should be carried out using specialty chemicals. This is done with a cleaning agent called BCD available from authorized Scubatech representatives. IMPORTANT It is essential to commission periodic inspections, repairs and any work affecting the operation of the buoyancy compensator to the manufacturer or service authorized by the manufacturer. It is prohibited to disassemble and assemble components of the buoyancy compensator and for such activities to be carried out by unauthorized persons. 8. Warranty During warranty claims it is always necessary to show proof of purchase issued by an authorized dealer as well as a warranty card containing a record of annual reviews. Scubatech guarantees the original purchaser that the product will be free from defects in materials and workmanship, provided that the recommendations for use, maintenance and service are complied with, within the following limits. The guarantee does not apply in the case of misuse, neglect, modification or unauthorized product service. The scope of the warranty is limited to repair or replacement of the product, depending on the decision of Scubatech. IMPORTANT Independent repair shall result in loss of warranty and can lead to loss of life or health. 14
WARRANTY CERTIFICATE Buoyancy compensator series models: Tecline Donut 15, 17, 22 Techline Donut (17, 22, 30) Special Edition Techline Donut 22 Special Edition Rebreather Tecline Peanut 21 ScubaTech Sp. z o.o. grants a 5-year warranty to the first owner for the proper functioning of the buoyancy compensator The following conditions must be fulfilled for to this warranty to be valid: purchase must be made at an authorized ScubaTech shop, the owner of the buoyancy compensator is the person entered in the warranty card, buoyancy compensator service must be carried out at least once a year, maintenance work must be carried out using the appropriate service kits by an authorized ScubaTech service, recommendations on the use, operation and maintenance of the buoyancy compensator must be complied with. IMPORTANT Guarantee rights are forfeited as a result of any repair and adjustment being carried out by persons without the authority to service ScubaTech equipment, as well as a result of improper use of the product and mechanical damage. Conducting surveys or services by unauthorized persons will void your warranty. 15
Name and surname of owner... Address Model Date of sale. Official stamp and signature of seller SAFETY INSPECTION CONTROL 16
Date of service Evaluation of technical condition Name of Service Technician Signature and official stamp 17
9. Manufacturer s details SCUBATECH Sp. z o.o. ul. Lubieszyńska 2 71-087 Mierzyn Tel./fax: 00 48 914 530 017 e-mail: scubatech@scubatech.pl 10. Notes... 18