Aqua Lung Octopus Maintenance Manual - Page 16
Browse online or download pdf Maintenance Manual for Controller Aqua Lung Octopus. Aqua Lung Octopus 20 pages. Second stage
Also for Aqua Lung Octopus: Technical Bulletin (4 pages)
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16
Aqua Lung and Apeks Regulators and Nitrox
When it comes to issues of nitrox safety and compatibility, the concerns lie primarily with the regulator's first stage as it is subjected
to high inlet pressures. High inlet pressures lead to adiabatic compression or heating of the gas. The Aqua Lung or Apeks regulator
product described in this manual, when properly cleaned and assembled, is authorized for use with enriched air nitrox (EAN) that does
not exceed 40% (EAN 40). It is authorized because it has undergone adiabatic compression testing and the authorized service kit
components and lubricants are compatible in elevated oxygen environments. During cleaning, a mild detergent must be used to remove
condensed hydrocarbons (compressor oils) from the inside passageways of the first stage. For the first stage to remain EAN40 compat-
ible, only use hyperfiltered compressed gas ( hydrocarbons < 0.1 mg/m3). Ordinary compressed breathing air (Grade E) usually does
not meet this criterion. Once ordinary breathing air is used, the first stage is no longer EAN40 compatible until it is cleaned and serviced
again.
Although regulator second stage components are not exposed to high pressure EAN, Aqua Lung and Apeks recommend that the same
cleaning procedures be followed for the complete regulator. This prevents the possibility of cross contamination and guarantees the
cleanliness of the entire regulator.
Cleaning Brass and Stainless Steel Parts
1.
Preclean in warm, soapy water* using a nylon bristle tooth brush.
2.
Thoroughly clean parts in an ultrasonic cleaner filled with soapy water. If there are stubborn deposits, household white distilled
vinegar (acetic acid) in an ultrasonic cleaner will work well. DO NOT place plastic, rubber, silicone or anodized aluminum parts in
vinegar.
3.
Remove parts from the ultrasonic cleaner and rinse with fresh water. If tap water is extremely "hard," place the parts in a bath of
distilled water to prevent any mineral residue. Agitate lightly, and allow to soak for 5-10 minutes. Remove and blow dry with low
pressure (25 psi) filtered air, and inspect closely to ensure proper cleaning and like-new condition.
Cleaning Anodized Aluminum, Plastic & Rubber Parts
Anodized aluminum parts and parts made of plastic or rubber, such as box bottoms, box tops, dust caps, etc., may be soaked and
cleaned in a solution of warm water mixed with mild dish soap. Use only a soft nylon toothbrush to scrub away any deposits. Rinse in
fresh water and thoroughly blow dry, using low pressure filtered air.
CAUTION:
Do not place plastic and rubber parts in acid solutions. Doing so may alter the physical proper-
ties of the component, causing it to prematurely degrade and/or break.
Cleaning Hoses
1.
Hose fittings: Ultrasonically clean with soapy water; vinegar OK on tough corrosion
2.
Run soapy water through hose if needed
3.
Thoroughly rinse with fresh water
4.
Blow out hose before installing
Lubrication and Dressing
Wear powderless, latex gloves when handling and lubricating o-rings. Keeping internal parts free from skin oils and other contaminates
is important when running enriched air nitrox through a first stage. All o-rings should be lubricated with Christo-Lube
the o-rings with a very light film of grease, and remove any visible excess by running the o-ring between thumb and forefinger. Avoid
applying excessive amounts of Christo-Lube grease, as this will attract particulate matter that may cause damage to the o-ring.
*Soapy water is defined as "household" grade liquid dishwashing detergent diluted in warm water.
Procedure A
Cleaning & Lubrication
MCG-111. Dress
MCG-111. Dress
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