Reg servicing

[cummings66]

Originally Posted by JahJahwarrior

2. A total free flow will not empty an 80 in thirty seconds.

Are you referring to the post on TDS where a guy actually tested things like this, ie lp leaks, hp leaks, free flows, etc? If so I've been trying to find his post again and can't seem to get it. TDS keeps telling me my search needs more than 3 words, even though I have more than 3 words.

His post was VERY informative and shed a lot of light on leaks and how fast they'll empty a tank, and some of them empty a tank way faster than you might think.

Do you have that link? If so post it so I can book mark it again.

[ReefHound]

ADM Failure TEST

Here is a little test I did at Eagles Nest cave on Feb 12th for a small article to be placed in issue 17 of Advanced Diver Magazine.

The question I wanted to answer was:

How much time would it take to empty a full aluminum 80 cuft cylinder from 3000 psi to 0 for the following situations and would depth affect the times.

1. Failed Burst Disk
2. Failed HP Hose
3. Failed LP Hose
4. Free Flow high performance regulator 2nd stage.

I completed the test on the surface (0 feet) with 4 aluminum 80’s and a Zeagle D50 regulator.

Here are the results

1. Failed Burst Disk = 72 seconds
2. Failed HP Hose = 22 minutes
3. Failed LP Hose = 83 seconds
4. Free Flow High Performance Regulator = 255 seconds


I then repeated the test at 4 atm’s / 99ft

1. Failed Burst Disk = Same within a second or 2
2. Failed HP Hose = Same within a minute
3. Failed LP Hose = Same within a second or 2
4. Free Flow High Performance Regulator = 155 seconds

I then repeated the test at 8 atm’s / 231ft

1. Failed Burst Disk = Same within a second or 2
2. Failed HP Hose = did not complete due to time restraints but would assume it would be with a minute difference
3. Failed LP Hose = Same within a second or 2
4. Free Flow High Performance Regulator = 91 seconds

The results show the small amounts of time a diver would have to solve a major equipment failure while at deeper depths.

[ReefHound]

I think most of us can disregard the 230 foot test. You are NOT going to be at that depth without redundant gear that is meticulously maintained. Looks like worst case scenario is a failed burst disk leaving you just over a minute STARTING WITH 3000 PSI. But you might only have 1000 psi when the failure happens. A burst disk is less likely (IMO) than a LP hose but that gives you only another 10 seconds.

[cummings66]

That's the post, I knew it was around and was interesting to see the numbers. The only thing that seems to change a lot is the freeflow on the regulator and it should be noted that a free flow is a serious problem if you don't catch it. ie your octo is being drug behind you in the muck and freeflows, bad news. Shows you the importance of keeping it pinned where you can see it, plus keeping your gear in good condition.

[Bob-B]

I am surprised that the HP hose lasted 22 minutes. I guess that the HP hose is the one that goes to your gauges or computer? I am also guessing that there must be an orfice that restricts air flow for a tank to last 22 minutes. Anyone know the answer?

[fireflock]

Yes - there is a tiny hole.

[ReefHound]

Have you ever seen how tiny the opening is to the HP hose? I doubt you could get a safety pin in it. Your HP hose is designed to transmit pressure not deliver volume.

[marchand]

Does anyone know where I can get the service manuals for Zeagle, Sherwood, Dacor, and US Divers regs?

[ReefHound]

Sherwood manuals

[Cambria]

How do people learn to service their own regs? I'm pretty competent at working on things like that, but I would be reluctant to dive into my reg with just a service manual and some basic tools. How do you verify the pressures, etc? Just replace the o-rings and hope for the best?