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An overview of buoyancy compression devices

A buoyancy compression device (BCD) is basically some kind of equipment that allows you to manage the buoyant character of an item, usually with the help of a bladder arrangement, which can be deflated or inflated so as to retain a certain altitude of buoyancy. At times, a BCD may comprise of materials having innate buoyant characteristics that allow objects or persons to float in fluids like water.

A great example of BCD is the buoyancy control valve included in any diving suit. Such suits incorporate a small tank containing a gas that is utilized while diving. The diver is enabled to maintain the right state of buoyancy by adjusting the volume of gas entering or leaving his/her water tight suit. By regulating and maintaining their suits at the correct pressure, the divers are able to explore living beings and other items beneath the surface of water.

It is not difficult to understand that, when the divers want to rise up, they simply need to decrease the volume of gas contained in their suit. Many other devices meant for water recreation or sports make use of BCDs. Some such devices include life vests and water wings. In fact, an inflatable life raft is also a kind of BCD.

Other than the applications involving water recreation and underwater exploration, the devices and machinery employed for oil and construction businesses also use BCDs. The positioning of steel, concrete or stone structures like underwater foundations and pillars beneath the surface of water also makes use of such devices, though in varying designs. Likewise, the professionals connected with underwater research necessarily employ BCD devices.

Irrespective of the purpose for which buoyancy compression devices may be used, the concept has been known to mankind since ages. As time passes, we can surely expect many new applications to be developed. For the time being, just keep in mind that, as you drive on a bridge over a sea or river, your life has been touched by one or more of the buoyancy compression devices.

Should you buy your own or rent a BCD for diving?

Having a personal BCD is excellent. Your personal BCD can be expected to fit you perfectly well, keeping you more comfy while in water, compared to the rented variety. Why regularly using your own BCD, you will be able to use it more efficiently as you get used to its peculiarities and functions.

However, you should know that BCDs are expensive. Shops offering scuba bcds on rent have a wide range of BCDs and you can be sure of getting one that fits you well, and well solves the purpose. If you are unable to procure all your diving equipment in one go, you should initially purchase items that fit you perfectly, like masks, fins, wetsuits, regulators, and a BCD can follow later. Moreover, you'll benefit by taking different kinds of BCDs on rent as you'll be able to judge which design suits you most and fulfills your requirements..

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