Properly selected equipment for a diver is a guarantee of his safety under water. This is especially true of devices responsible for a smooth and regular supply of breathing air. One of these pieces of equipment is the octopus.
What is this?
Spare part for the second stage of the breathing regulator is used in emergency cases. It is called octopus (pictured). So that in a stressful situation it can be easily detected even in troubled waters, it is produced in bright and contrasting colors - yellow or orange with black stripes. A long breathing hose extends from the base.
Before diving, a briefing with the rules for using the octopus and training is required. This allows, if necessary, to know exactly the sequence of actions.
When an octopus might come in handy:
- main lung machine failed;
- freezing occurred in cold watermain equipment;
- partner ran out of air in the tanks - you can share a portion of air through your octopus;
- create an emergency cavity with air in an enclosed space (like a cave);
- pumping cargo bags.
Device
Octopus - what is it by design? With the branches of the hose, it really resembles the tentacles of an octopus: octopus means "octopus" in translation. The angle between the mouthpiece and the hose is 120°, the exhalation valve has a dual mechanism with a side arrangement. The large angle makes it easy to transfer the octopus to another person for breathing, and the lateral direction of the valve allows it to be used in any position.
High resistance to freezing is facilitated by the separation of mounting surfaces, for example, the lever is located on the opposite side of the air outlet. Thus, the middle part of the octopus performs a thermal insulation function, without transferring cold to the lever.
Answering the question of what it is - an octopus, you can see that its hose, compared to the first stage regulator (main), is 20 centimeters longer - about 80 cm, and the device itself is equipped with an emergency start button.
What factors to consider when buying
The greater the capacity of the octopus, the better the air flow it can deliver at depth, even with low tank pressure. An important aspect is convenience: the shape of the mouthpiece should not cause discomfort during use. What else to look for when buying:
- Safety – it is important to choose a quality modern diving octopus model from a reputable manufacturer.
- Climatic conditions - the temperature of the water when diving affects the type of device selected.
- Load - shallow diving in calm (stagnant) water differs from deeper diving with high pressure and current. The latter requires more intense breathing.
- Maintenance - replacement of parts, lubrication, timely repair at the service center should be available.
Octopus types
According to the design, octopuses are:
- membrane;
- reciprocating.
By connection type:
- Yoke;
- DIN.
Based on the principle of operation:
- balanced;
- unbalanced.
Balanced provides easier breathing at depths and more air supply if necessary (inflating a wetsuit, supplying a second scuba diver). Studying the question of what it is - an octopus and which one to stop your first choice, you can contact a specialized diving center for instructors. They will help you choose the right one from the requirements of the conditions of use and the level of diving experience.
Producers
The main octopus manufacturers are diving equipment companies:
- Aqua lung – France;
- Mares (Italy);
- Apeks (UK);
- Scubapro (Italy);
- Oceanic (USA);
- Hollis (USA);
- Subgear (Germany).
Where to buy
Good stores give you the opportunity to test the octopus when buying. Addresses of the nearest trading establishments can be found on the Internet by reviews. It is better to buy this serious part in an online store, taking into account the provision of warranty service. Until the octopus has been tested in real diving conditions, nothing can be said about how it will behave and work.
As a rule, the largest diving equipment stores have their own websites, so even if there is no branch in the desired city, you can make a purchase via the Internet with delivery.
A purchased device must be properly assembled and maintained. It will be possible to do this on your own only according to the clear instructions that are attached to the product, or you will have to give the octopus to specialists working in the field of diving equipment or store employees. It should not be forgotten that the octopus is a life support system, and its selection, purchase, assembly and maintenance should be approached very seriously.
Price
The cost of an octopus depends on its type, purpose (working conditions, winter or summer diving) and manufacturer. On average, its price fluctuates around 7,000–14,000 rubles.
Reviews
If the octopus is chosen correctly, taking into account all factors, then buyers pay attention to ease of use and convenience. In this category based on octopus reviewsAqua Lung is the leader. Some consumers urge not to make a difference when buying between DIN and Yoke, since there are convenient adapter brackets, and many companies have begun to make universal valves that convert to DIN.
Divers note such an interesting fact that the choice of equipment in Vladivostok stores is better and the prices there are lower than in stores in Moscow and St. Petersburg.
All buyers agree that if you had to use the octopus, then a critical situation has occurred and you need to rise to the surface. Long and continuous use of this equipment should be avoided.
