Thermal Considerations When Using the MK 16 Mod O Underwater Breathing Apparatus in 4.4C (40F) Water.
Abstract
To assure safe dive planning, the CO2 absorbent canister duration limits, diver thermal protection, and decompression profile must be tested as an integrated package. The objective of this study was to evaluate the MK 16 Mod O closed circuit mixed gas SCUBA along with the equipment necessary to support diver for the longest HVAL 21 Decompression Table in 4.4 C (40 F) water. The diver's core temperature and oxygen consumption along with the MK 16 canister effluent CO2 were measured prior to the dive termination. All dives were aborted for thermal considerations. The first article EOD Dry Suit MK 1 Mod 0 is inadequate to support a diver in a long duration, cold water dive. The MK 16 is capable of supporting all the HVAL 21 Decompression Tables that require in water decompression in temperatures 40 F and above. The polypropylene moisture absorbent pads are suitable replacements for the current foam pads and can be used until evidence of gross deterioration. (AW/MJM)
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Feb 01, 1988
- Accession Number
- ADA199798
Entities
People
- M. E. Knafelc
Organizations
- United States Navy Experimental Diving Unit