Buoyancy Compensators

Buoyancy Compensators are sometimes referred to as a BCD or a BC. They are used by divers to steady the buoyancy of the diver and his gear. A buoyancy compensator gives the diver total control of the buoyancy when he is diving deeper or coming up to the surface. Buoyancy compensators can come in the form of a vest like piece or can be built into the scuba set itself.

Buoyancy is defined as the upward force that keeps things afloat. This what a Buoyancy Compensator Device does; it keeps things afloat or the opposite, keeps them under the water. This is very useful for a diver that wants to stay at a certain depth with out floating upwards. Not having balanced buoyancy can be dangerous.

A Buoyancy compensator device is found in three different types. You have Wings, a Stabber Jacket and a Divers Life Jacket. These are the three main types of Buoyancy Compensators. Each is different in its design and style, but all of them have the same purpose in mind.

A Wings buoyancy compensator is a bag that sits between the cylinder and the divers back and is inflated. Stab Jacket buoyancy compensators are worn around the chest of the diver and are inflated. A Divers Life Jacket buoyancy compensator looks just like a life vest and is worn around the neck and strapped around the chest. It is essential that when diving in deep waters you use a buoyancy compensator.