Preamble
Thank you for choosing SMACO. You can now breathe freely underwater thanks to equipment made and designed with the collaboration of beginners and experienced scuba divers.
To begin with, before using a SMACO product for the first time, it is very important to carefully read this entire user manual. Always ensure that the product is used in accordance with the conditions defined in this manual, regardless of the user.
SMACO cannot be held responsible in the event of a material accident or injury following non-compliance with the instructions provided. SMACO has been developed to be used at sea or in swimming pools.
Use in a different environment can potentially accelerate equipment aging. SMACO reserves the right to modify or improve the manual without notice.
Please be aware of its current version before using the product.
The user manual must be kept for the entire life of the product. The updated version is also available on the website www.SMACO.com.
You can also consult, directly on our website, our help section containing videos/tutorials. At the end of certain parts, the word "WARNINGS" is indicated to highlight a specific situation to be taken into consideration in order to avoid any risk.
Before boarding an aircraft on a trip, the tank should not be pressurized. It may be necessary to separate the tank from the cylinder by unscrewing it from the regulator. To do this, simply unscrew (counterclockwise) the 2 elements.
These 2 elements must be screwed with the original O-ring supplied by SMACO, according to a torque of 90 Nm (according to the manufacturer of the regulator). Please note that according to the regulations, you are responsible for the reassembly of the equipment.
INSTRUCTIONS TO FOLLOW IMPERATIVELY
NEVER hold your breath, breathe continuously, NEVER rise to the surface faster than air bubbles Use equipment at SHALLOW depth Monitor your MANOMETER VERY REGULARLY
PROHIBITED USE WITHOUT KNOWLEDGE OF THE DANGERS OF USE
Contents
1. Contents of the kit (depending on pack and options)
2. Disclaimers
3. Product introduction
4. Technical characteristics
5. General Usage Precautions
5.1. Before diving
5.2 While diving
5.3 After the dive
6. Compressed air recharge
6.1. High pressure hand pump
6.2. Filling station
6.3. 12V compressor
7. Hazards
8. Storage
9. Maintenance and upkeep
10. Warranty
11. Standards and regulations
12. Behaviors to follow and avoid while diving
13 APPENDIX
Contents of the kit (depending on pack and options)
● 1 diving bottle 0.5 l (in aluminum for SMACO Alu) or 0.48 l (in composite for SMACO Carbon)
● 1 regulator (with mouthpiece and manometer)
● 1 DIN or Yoke filling station (if you choose this option)
● 1 hand pump (if you choose this option)
● 1 compressor 12 V (if you choose this option)
● 1 inverter 12-110/220 V (if you choose this option)
● 1 manual and safety instructions 2. Warnings
● We advise users to follow the basic rules for scuba diving established by authorized organizations
● Any use without taking into account the safety rules endangers the user
● SMACO equipment should never be used with an air supply from the surface
● No mounting assembly can be done by the user, except those provided for this purpose
● No part or component of SMACO equipment, the hand pump or the compressor should ever be used on any other device. This may void the warranty and put users at risk.
● Recommended minimum age to use SMACO equipment is eight years old (with adult supervision)
● Equipment parts should never be greased, this may damage the equipment and seals
● The user must always correctly read the correct unit of pressure (bar or PSI) on the gauge(s) WARNINGS
● The use of SMACO under 3 m (10 ft) depth is prohibited for anyone who has not undergone specific scuba diving training from an official 3/14 3 center.
Product presentation
Technical data SMACO
● Internal tank water volume: 0.5 l (30 in3) for SMACO Alu and 0.48 l (29 in3) for SMACO Carbon
● Maximum authorized pressure (PS): 200 bars (3,000 psi) for SMACO Alu, 250 bars (3,750 psi) for SMACO Carbon ● Operating temperature: +10 °C / +40 °C (50 °F / 104 ° F)
● Weight: 1.1 kg (2.4 lb) empty for SMACO Alu / 0.9 kg (2 lb) empty for SMACO Carbon
● Dimensions: 29x7 cm (11.4x2.8 in) for SMACO Alu / 32x6 cm (12.6x2.4 in) for SMACO Carbon
● Maximum permitted operating depth: 3 m (10 ft)
● Maximum operating depth of equipment (allowed for certified divers depending on their diving certification): 50 m (164 ft) Hand pump:
● Maximum authorized pressure: 250 bars (3,750 PSI)
● Dimensions (hxw): 60x18 cm (23.6x7.1 in)
● Weight: 2 kg (4.4 lb) 12 V compressor
● Maximum authorized pressure: 300 bars (4,500 PSI) ●
Dimensions (hxw): 20x20x10 cm (7.9x7.9x3.9 in)
● Weight: 6 kg (13.2 lb) without inverter and 6.5 kg (14.3 lb)
5. General Usage Precautions
● Due to its vital function, always use it with caution
● Never force the valve
● When SMACO equipment is not in use, do not leave the regulator under pressure, purge the air using the diaphragm
● Excessive stress exerted on the membrane may cause too much air to be expelled. To stop it, plug the mouthpiece
● Avoid putting the SMACO equipment, the hand pump or the 12 V compressor in contact with sand or any other object
● Do not expose the equipment to direct sunlight for an extended period
● On first use, do a full tank test before getting in the water to gauge your feel WARNINGS
● In the event of a leak or suspected malfunction, keep your ears away from the equipment, close the valve, refer to these instructions and contact your dealer if necessary"
5.1. Before diving
● Even in good health, all users should consult a doctor 6/14
● Visually check the equipment before diving or filling it (it may happen that the regulator unscrews a little)
● Perform 2 or 3 inhale/exhale cycles before getting in the water to check for proper operation
● Never rotate (except those provided for this purpose) the element after pressurizing
● Match your dive to the gauge pressure
5.2 While diving
● Always adopt smooth and continuous breathing
● The equipment should not be used in water below +10°C (50°F)
● SMACO equipment should only be used by one person at a time
● The maximum allowed depth is 3 m (10 ft)
● Regularly check the remaining pressure of the tank with the manometer ● The user must remain on the surface when the remaining pressure is equal to or less than 50 bars (725 PSI) (red zone of the manometer)
● Stop the dive if there is a leak from the SMACO equipment, then slowly ascend to the surface
● Plan to stop using the equipment before the compressed air is completely exhausted WARNINGS
● Never rise to the surface faster than the air bubbles ● Stop diving if you feel any discomfort in your ears or sinuses, and do not dive if you have a cold ● NEVER stop your breath during your descent or ascent ● Do not submerge SMACO equipment when it is not under pressure
5.3 After the dive
After using SMACO equipment, please follow these instructions:"
● Purge the regulator by pressing on the diaphragm
● Rinse the equipment with clear water
● Let the equipment dry
Do not use aerosols or other solvents for cleaning
WARNINGS
The cleaning of the regulator must be carried out gently. Too strong a jet of water through the mouthpiece may damage the inner membrane
6. Compressed air recharge
● The responsibility for the quality of the compressed air rests with the person who fills the tank
● If there is a difference between the pressure of the filling tank and the pressure gauge of the tank to be filled, the higher value should be taken into account. WARNINGS 7/14
● SMACO Alu equipment must not be filled with a pressure greater than 200 bar (3000 psi).
● It is up to the person in charge of filling the tank to ensure this.
● SMACO Carbon equipment must not be filled with a pressure greater than 250 bar (3750 psi).
● It is up to the person in charge of filling the tank to ensure this.
6.1. High pressure hand pump
To recharge the SMACO equipment with the hand pump, please follow the instructions below:
● Pull the female clip of the pump before inserting the male clip of the regulator (“click” = good connection) - Pump up to the desired pressure (max. 250 bars / 3,750 psi) - Open the pump valve
● It is recommended not to use the pump for more than 5 minutes continuously. A little cooling time is necessary
● Between each pumping cycle, you can purge the pump in order to let the base cool down (leave the tank connected)
● The optimal pumping cycle is as follows: 2 min 30 of pumping - short break - pump again...
● Only the high pressure hand pump sold by SMACO is compatible with SMACO equipment
● Do not leave the pump connected under pressure when not in use ● Regularly compare the pressure gauge (gauge) of the hand pump with that of the SMACO equipment
● Make sure that no dust, traces of water or any other foreign body is in the clips, once the protections have been removed
● Incorrect orientation of the male clip in the female clip risks causing a micro-leak (representing however no danger whatever the pressure)."
● In this case, reposition the clip so that the weight of the tank does not exert any pressure on the clip
● After 5 complete tank fillings, the filter located inside the cartridge must be replaced. 5 white foam filters are supplied with the pump.
6.2. Filling station
● Connect the tank of the filling station with that of the bottle to be filled
● Slowly open the source tank valve to avoid pressurizing and overfilling
● While pressurizing the filling station, do not point the pressure gauge towards you
● Make sure that no dust, traces of water or any other foreign body is in the clips, once the protections have been removed
● Pay attention to the unit in PSI (3000 psi = 200 bars; 3750 psi = 250 bars)
WARNINGS
● The person in charge of filling the tank must remain next to the equipment during filling 8/14
● Filling must be carried out at a maximum pressure of 200 bar (3,000 psi) for SMACO Alu, 250 bar (3,750 psi) for SMACO Carbon
● Filling must be done very slowly (1 minute minimum)
● Take a break during filling in case of too much heating for the tank to cool down
6.3. 12V compressor
● Connect the battery (or inverter) cables to the 12 V compressor
● Connect the high pressure hose to the compressor by pulling on the female clip of the hose and inserting the male clip of the compressor (“click” = good connection)
● Pull the female clip of the cartridge before inserting the male clip of the regulator (“click” = good connection)
● Tighten the brass pressure relief screw
● Turn on the fans by pressing the green switch (make sure the fans are running)
● Turn on the compressor by pressing the red switch
● Regularly compare the pressure gauge (gauge) of the compressor with that of the SMACO equipment
● Regularly check the temperature display. This should not exceed 85°C (185°F)
● Let the compressor run until the desired pressure (max. 250 bar / 3750 psi)
● Unscrew the brass pressure relief screw to release the pressure from the hose
● Disconnect the tank from the cartridge by pulling on the female clip
● Change the filters inside the cartridge by replacing them with a new mixture of molecular sieve and activated carbon."
WARNINGS If the tank gets too hot while filling, take a break.
7. Hazards
● Failure to comply with these basic rules of scuba diving can lead to the risk of drowning or serious injury or even death.
● In the event of a shock, the equipment may be damaged without any visible damage. If in doubt, have your equipment checked by a specialist
● It is totally forbidden to change the layout or modify the different parts of the SMACO equipment
● Never add items from SMACO equipment to other (diving) equipment or vice versa
● Never introduce water into the equipment"
8. Storage
● Once the products are dried, store them in a clean, closed box or bag.
● Store the products in a dry place, protected from light, between +5°C and 35°C (41°F to 35°F) 9/14
● Leave the valve closed during storage. The upper compartment must not be pressurized
● Do not store the products near gasolines, oils or other chemicals
● Do not store the products in a dusty place or a place where there is sand
● The hose must be free of all constraints and the tank must be in a vertical position, the valve upwards
● During storage, remove the upper regulator from the valve and place the supplied cap to protect its outlet"
9. Maintenance and upkeep
● Proper operation and storage of your equipment in the proper conditions does not necessarily depend on how often it is used."
● Even when not in use, storage in poor conditions may cause significant damage
● Have your SMACO equipment inspected regularly by a specialist (preferably once a year)
● Concerning the SMACO tank, the French law does not impose an inspection or a new compulsory test, nevertheless these verifications are strongly recommended.
● Concerning the regulator, the French law does not impose an inspection or a new mandatory test, nevertheless these checks are recommended (inquire according to the country)
● It is recommended to replace the hand pump filter every 5 refills
● It is possible that after a certain number of recharges, the movement of the pump becomes more difficult. In this case, apply a small amount of silicone grease to the metal tube of the pump
● To replace a defective part, preferably use an original part ● If breathing is too difficult, remove the membrane by unscrewing it from the regulator.
● Then adjust the sensitivity by tightening the small screw located under the white bar
● Do not attempt to repair your equipment yourself other than as instructed in this manual.
● Remember that your safety and the proper functioning of your equipment depend on its maintenance
● For the maintenance of your regulators and your tank, contact a diving club
● A FAQ section is also available for all products on the SMACO.com site
10. Warranty
● The equipment is guaranteed for one year from the date of purchase
● The warranty is only valid for the first owner of the equipment
● For any warranty claim, proof of purchase provided by your dealer will be required.
● This warranty is only valid for parts that are “defective” due to a manufacturing defect 10/14
● Any lack of maintenance may void the warranty
● The warranty does not cover damage due to misuse or negligence, as mentioned in this document
● The warranty does not apply to “normal” product wear. It does not include the recommended regular checks. It is void if the equipment is disassembled other than in accordance with the instructions provided in this guide.
● In the event of modification of the product by a qualified person, the latter assumes responsibility for the said repairs/modifications carried out on the product.
● Warranty is available for repair or replacement of a part by SMACO, postage and packaging costs are the responsibility of the buyer
● The replaced parts then become the property of SMACO.
● New parts cannot under any circumstances give rise to an extension of the product warranty.
● Liability resulting from the sale is limited to the warranty described above.
● This excludes the possibility of recourse to penalties and damages ● The rules are subject to change according to the territories after the development of this manual, in which case an adaptation may be necessary
● Any modification of the product results in the cancellation of the guarantee and may generate risks during use.
● Any exchange of parts from one piece of equipment to another voids the warranty
● To benefit from the guarantee, please contact your retailer
11. Standards and regulations
● Tank and regulator are CE certified
● The compressor is also CE certified
● Other standards or rules may apply in certain regions, some of which may belong to the European Union" 12. Behaviors to follow and avoid during diving
● Failure to follow these instructions may expose you to dangers with serious consequences for your health.
Preamble Scuba diving is a risky activity if it is practiced without knowledge of safety rules.
You will find in this document the main advice on the behaviors to adopt and to avoid so that your dives remain pleasant moments.
Further advice can be given by qualified diving instructors. Basic rules and advice Before diving, it is strongly advised to consult a doctor in order to assess your fitness to dive. If you suffer from asthma, diabetes, heart or vascular diseases, ENT diseases, epilepsy and other neurological disorders, the practice of scuba diving is strongly discouraged.
This also applies to transient illnesses such as colds, sinusitis, bronchitis, infection of the nose, throat, ears (otitis) or teeth (caries).
Other factors are also not compatible with the practice of scuba diving such as a peptic ulcer, retinal detachment, glaucoma, enlarged spleen (splenomegaly) or pregnancy.
You will find below the main recommendations of the FFESSM listing in a more exhaustive way the contraindications.
- Avoid flying or hiking at high altitude on the day you are diving.
- Throughout the dive, you must adopt continuous breathing by regularly checking your pressure gauge.
- Do not use earplugs, these prevent pressure equalization.
- Only dive if you feel good and want to.
- Hydrate before and after diving (to prevent your mucous membranes from drying out in the cool, dry air)
Lowering
The descent (even shallow) leads to an increase in ambient pressure. To maintain an equal level of pressure between you and the environment, you must perform the Valsalva maneuver. This process involves blowing (slowly) while pinching your nose with your mouth closed. By performing this maneuver, you avoid the main risk associated with the descent: barotrauma, the effects of which are felt mainly on the eardrums and sinuses. If you are unable to perform this maneuver correctly, do not descend further and slowly rise to the surface.
The rise
During the ascent, perform the Toynbee maneuver, simply pinching your nose but this time swallowing (your saliva). Lung overpressure accident is one of the most serious diving accidents. It occurs when the diver stops breathing during an ascent. To avoid this, simply adopt flexible and continuous breathing. The diver's ascent rate should not exceed that of the small air bubbles. For experienced users and graduates of an accredited club, the ascent from a significant depth may require decompression which will depend on the dive time and the depth reached.
The goal is to eliminate the accumulated nitrogen in your body, because if you go up too fast, the nitrogen will not be eliminated. Worse still, the gas bubbles present in the blood risk blocking vessels, leading in particular to a risk of paralysis or thrombosis. If you experience pain or discomfort during the ascent or descent, stop your progress immediately. Ascend slowly and gradually to the surface while controlling your tank pressure and breathing.
Physical effort
Do not make any unnecessary effort before and especially during and after diving. Do not snorkel before and after diving.
Never try to exceed your limits, SMACO equipment is not designed for performance. Manage your breathing, and, in case of shortness of breath, rise slowly and gradually to the surface, breathing as slowly as possible.
Adaptation to the environment Underwater, touch only the elements that you know and always with precaution. Poor visibility can be a stressor, so tailor your dive to your surroundings. Stress is often the start of a vicious circle and can cause an accident. It is therefore essential to manage your stress level well to ensure a dive in the best possible conditions.
Equip yourself according to the diving environment. Choose a suitable mask and fins. A spare snorkel is also advised. The cold can also be a stressor. A suitable suit reduces cold-related problems such as shortness of breath. Do not dive in too rough water, assess the current and check the weather forecast.
