Wreck diving can be split into 3 broad levels of complexity and sophistication (Ref: Gary Gentile, ‘The Advanced Wreck Diving Handbook‘). In the table below, I have allocated 3 additional minutes at the bottom depth to allow for exiting a 10m linear distance out of the wreck. This accounts for factors like silt-outs or minor entanglements. When doing so, it is prudent to assume that the exiting speed will be 2-3x slower than the normal finning pace. The time spent exiting the wreck must be incorporated into the bottom phase of gas calculations. Their total wreck penetration distance is calculated by subtracting the bottom depth from 40m/130′.įor example, if they entered a wreck at 30m/100′ depth, they are consequently limited to 10m/30′ of penetration distance. Recreational-level qualified wreck divers are limited to 40m/130′ maximum linear distance from the surface. See my article How To Use Less Air When Scuba Diving Exiting the wreck before the ascentįor wreck penetration diving, it is prudent to favour a larger pony cylinder because the extra volume may account for any unforeseen delays in exiting the wreck. Improved fundamental diving skills will reduce your overall SAC rate, whilst developing stress management and resiliency will help prevent your SAC rate from becoming dangerously exaggerated when things eventually go wrong. ![]() That training is usually only delivered on higher-quality training courses. It is worth considering using a larger cylinder as a contingency for diver stress in an emergency.įor more in-depth detail about pony cylinder gas management, see my comprehensive Pony Cylinder Guide.Īny diver considering doing training for wreck penetration diving should endeavor to develop robust fundamental diving skills and their ability for stress management. Do, however, consider that the psychological stress of dealing with a real out-of-gas emergency could substantially increase the diver’s SAC/RMV. ![]() Using that example of SAC 30L/min, we can see that an AL19 (540L) pony cylinder is sufficient for a safe ascent from 30m/100′ depth.
0 Comments
Leave a Reply. |