Buoyancy control device
| Buoyancy control device | |
|---|---|
| Type | Protective Gear |
| Tech Level | TL–6 |
| Cost | Cr45 |
| Size | 0.2 liters |
| Weight | |
| per square meter | |
The buoyancy control device (BCD) is an inflatable vest which is used to control a diver's buoyancy, capable of holding the diver's head completely out of water when fully inflated. When used as a life jacket, it will hold the wearer's head completely out of the water indefinitely. From TL–8, life-jackets are made more resistant to rips; from TL–12, they are made of Levanex and are virtually impossible to rip.
The BCD should not be used to lift objects out of the water, since if the object is dropped, the diver will suddenly become very buoyant and rise to the surface at great speed. The diver will then risk the bends. To properly lift objects to the surface, use a lift bag.
A BCD can be inflated orally; from air tanks (with a special hose attachment); or, in an emergency, from a CO2 cartridge.