Scuba Oxygen Cylinders in Pakistan Types Prices Uses & Safety Guide. Scuba oxygen cylinders are essential high-pressure tanks used for underwater breathing in diving and marine operations. In Pakistan, particularly in coastal regions, these cylinders are widely used by professional divers, port authorities, rescue teams, and marine contractors. Moreover, recreational diving schools also rely heavily on certified scuba tanks.
These cylinders are manufactured under international standards set by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) and the National Fire Protection Association (us fire safety standards body”]ξ. Similarly, local compliance in Pakistan aligns with the Pakistan Standards and Quality Control Authority (PSQCA), ensuring safety and quality control. As per (NFPA) Standers.
π What Are Scuba Oxygen Cylinders?
A scuba cylinder, commonly known as a scuba tank, is a compressed gas container used in underwater breathing systems. However, it is important to clarify that most recreational scuba tanks contain compressed air (21% oxygen), not pure oxygen. In contrast, pure oxygen cylinders are used only for decompression or medical applications under strict supervision.
Scuba Oxygen Cylinders in Pakistan Types Prices Uses & Safety Guide
These cylinders provide:
- Breathable air underwater
- Backup air supply for rescue operations
- Air support for underwater welding
- Emergency breathing gas for marine workers
Therefore, selecting the correct type of cylinder is critical for operational safety.
β Main Components of a Scuba Cylinder System
A complete scuba system includes several connected components. First, there is the high-pressure cylinder itself. Next, the regulator system reduces air pressure to a breathable level. Additionally, divers use a pressure gauge to monitor air levels throughout the dive.
Main components include:
- High-pressure cylinder (steel or aluminum)
- DIN or yoke valve
- First-stage regulator
- Second-stage demand valve
- Submersible pressure gauge (SPG)
- Buoyancy Control Device (BCD)
Together, these components ensure controlled and safe underwater breathing.
π Types of Scuba Cylinders in Pakistan
1οΈβ£ Aluminum Scuba Cylinders
Aluminum tanks are lightweight and corrosion-resistant. As a result, they are popular in recreational diving and training centers. Furthermore, they are easier to handle for beginners.
Used in: Coastal diving, training institutes
2οΈβ£ Steel Scuba Cylinders
Steel cylinders are stronger and more compact. Consequently, they can withstand higher pressures and last longer. In addition, they provide better buoyancy characteristics underwater.
Used in: Commercial diving, deep-sea operations
3οΈβ£ High-Pressure (HP) Cylinders β 300 Bar
High-pressure tanks hold more compressed air. Therefore, they allow longer dive durations. However, they require compatible regulators and filling stations.
4οΈβ£ Oxygen Clean Cylinders (Specialized Use)
These cylinders are specially cleaned for oxygen-enriched air (Nitrox). Because oxygen is highly reactive, strict handling and contamination control are required. For this reason, only certified professionals should fill and maintain them.
π Applications of Scuba Cylinders in Pakistan
Scuba cylinders are widely used in several industries. For example, marine contractors use them for underwater inspection and ship maintenance. Likewise, rescue teams depend on them during recovery missions.
Major applications include:
- Ship hull inspection
- Underwater welding and repair
- Port authority operations
- Marine research
- Commercial diving
- Recreational scuba diving
Particularly in Karachi, coastal demand is significantly higher due to port activities.
π° Scuba Oxygen Cylinder Price in Pakistan
Prices vary depending on material, pressure rating, and certification. Generally, steel cylinders cost more than aluminum ones. Additionally, oxygen-clean tanks are priced higher due to safety processing requirements.
| Type | Price Range (PKR) |
|---|---|
| 10β12L Aluminum Cylinder | 45,000 β 85,000 |
| 12β15L Steel Cylinder | 70,000 β 150,000 |
| 300 Bar High-Pressure Tank | 120,000 β 220,000 |
| Oxygen Clean Cylinder | 150,000 β 300,000 |
| Regulator Set | 35,000 β 120,000 |
Overall, bulk purchases for diving schools or marine contractors can reduce per-unit costs.
π Scuba Cylinder Suppliers in Pakistan
Several major cities have active diving and industrial safety suppliers. For instance, Karachi has strong marine equipment markets. Meanwhile, Lahore and Islamabad mainly supply industrial and imported equipment.
When choosing a supplier, ensure:
- Valid hydro-static testing certification
- 200 or 300 bar pressure compliance
- Oxygen-clean documentation (if required)
- Availability of spare parts
- Refilling support services
Most importantly, always verify certification documents before purchase.
π How Scuba Cylinders Work
Understanding the working principle is essential. First, the cylinder is filled using a high-pressure compressor. Then, the regulator reduces the pressure to a breathable level. After that, the diver inhales normally through the demand valve.
Meanwhile, the pressure gauge continuously displays remaining air. Finally, when air reaches reserve level, the diver safely ascends.
π§ͺ Maintenance & Safety Requirements
Proper maintenance is not optional; rather, it is mandatory for diver safety. In general, cylinders require hydrostatic testing every 3β5 years. Additionally, annual visual inspections help detect corrosion or valve issues.
Safety guidelines include:
- Store upright in dry areas
- Avoid exposure to heat
- Use certified filling stations only
- Service valves regularly
Without proper maintenance, cylinder failure risks increase significantly.
β Benefits of Scuba Cylinders
Scuba cylinders offer multiple operational advantages. For example, they enable safe underwater breathing for extended duration. Furthermore, they are durable and reusable when properly maintained.
In the long term, certified cylinders reduce operational risk and improve diving efficiency.
Key benefits:
- Reliable air supply
- Long service life
- High-pressure capacity
- Suitable for commercial and rescue use
- Essential for marine industries
π Conclusion
In conclusion, scuba oxygen cylinders in Pakistan play a critical role in underwater diving, marine maintenance, and rescue operations. While aluminum tanks are ideal for recreational use, steel and high-pressure cylinders are better suited for commercial applications. Therefore, selecting certified equipment and ensuring regular testing is essential for safety and compliance.