Second Stage TechnologyHomeDiving TechnologyУстройство второй ступени
SECOND STAGES
A second stage regulator must translate natural breathing
behavior into mechanical reality. A high quality second stage can
significantly reduce stress and enhance diver safety by providing
smooth, low-effort breathing response, resulting in ample yet
controllable quantities of air. The designation "balanced" and
"classic downstream" are also distinguishing marks for second
stages and imply the same general attributes like first stages,
i.e. ultimate flow performance and incredible interstage pressure
stability in addition to reliability, simplicity and solid
performance.
Air-balanced valve technology
The air balanced valve technology of SCUBAPRO second
stages features a balancing chamber in the second stage mechanism,
slightly offsetting the force of the downstream air entering from
the first stage. This allows reduced spring tension and decreases
the inhalation resistance to the lowest possible level. The result
is an ultra-high airflow that remains exceptionally stable under
all breathing conditions. The air-balanced valve technology is
featured in our A700 and S600 second stages. For optimum results
they should be combined with balanced first stages, like the MK25
or the MK17.
Optimal Flow Design technology
The Optimal Flow Design valve is the ultimate evolution
of the classic downstream technology. Unlike this one the OFD valve
features a full length piston shaped to obtain the optimal
aerodynamic performance. The gas flows freely over the piston
surface and provides the diver with the best breathing experience.
No regulator part slows down the airflow, and even the valve spring
is shifted to the back side of the piston so that the air doesn't
have to flow through the spring coils. The airflow is huge and rich
but always under control. This technology is featured on the C300
and C200 second stages.
Classic downstream valve technology
Classic downstream valves are particularly noted for
their legendary safety and reliability. When in use, the downstream
valve opens in the same direction as the incoming airflow. To close
the valve and stop the airflow, a spring counteracts the force of
the incoming air. Therefore, a certain inhalation effort is always
required to overcome the spring tension and open the valve. The
classic downstream valve is featured in the SCUBAPRO R-Series, here
"R" is synonymous with robust and reliable. This valve type is
found on the R295, R395 and AIR 2
