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An overview of buoyancy compression devices

A buoyancy compression device (BCD) is basically some type of equipment that allows you to control the buoyancy of an item, usually with the help of a bladder arrangement, which can be deflated or inflated to maintain a certain buoyancy altitude. Sometimes a BCD can be made up of materials that have innate buoyancy characteristics that allow objects or people to float in fluids such as water.

A great example of a BCD is the buoyancy control valve included in any diving suit. Said suits incorporate a small tank that contains a gas that is used during diving. The diver can maintain the proper state of buoyancy by adjusting the volume of gas entering or exiting his waterproof suit. By regulating and maintaining their suits at the correct pressure, divers can explore life and other things below the surface of the water.

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

In addition to applications related to aquatic recreation and underwater exploration, BCD is also used by devices and machinery used for construction and oil businesses. Positioning of steel, concrete, or stone structures such as underwater foundations and pillars below the water’s surface also makes use of such devices, albeit in varied designs. Likewise, professionals related to underwater research necessarily use BCD devices.

Regardless of the purpose for which buoyancy compression devices may be used, the concept has been known to mankind for a long time. As time goes by, we can surely expect many new applications to be developed. For now, keep in mind that while driving across a bridge over an ocean or river, your life has been touched by one or more compression buoyancy devices.

Should you buy your own BCD or rent a BCD to dive?

Having a personal BCD is great. You can expect your personal BCD to fit you perfectly, keeping you more comfortable while out on the water, compared to the rented variety. Why regularly use your own BCD, you will be able to use it more efficiently as you get used to its quirks and functions.

However, you should know that BCDs are expensive. Shops that offer BCDs for hire have a wide range of BCDs and you can be sure to get one that will fit you well and serve the purpose well. If you can’t get all your scuba gear at once, you should first buy perfectly fitting items like masks, fins, wetsuits, regulators, and a BCD you can follow later. In addition, you will benefit from renting different types of BCDs, as you will be able to judge which design best suits your needs.