Dmnituras from air to VYTechnical Diving InternationalTDI Understanding Nitrox: Using enriched oxygen mixtures fom ai to 4086 for recreational diving TDI Understanding Nitrox: Using erviched oxygen mixtures fom at to 408 for recreational diving Publisher: International Training Phone: 88-78-9073 Fax: 877-436-7096 tdisdi.com email: [email protected] © International Trait ing 2006-2012 vag Notice of Rights: All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or transmitted in any form by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording, or otherwise without the prior written permission of the publisher. For information on getting permission for reprints and excerpts, contact Intemational Training, Executive Editor Brian Camey Editor Steve Lewis Author: Frank Krzeszowski Art Director: Lynn Hendrickson Photography /Ilustrations: Doug Amberg (www.exploreH20.com) Sean Harrison Harry Averill Bob Olson Bret Gilliam Reviewers and Contributors: Donna Bissett Barb Krzeszowski laimer: All diving activities have inherent risks involved, Each individual diver engaging in any form of diving must accept the risks and accept responsibility for their own actions. The author and publisher assume no liability to anyone for loss, damage, injury or death caused by any error or omission in the work. Any and all such liability is disclaimed. The information in this manual per- tains to Nittox diving, and is only to be used as a supplement to recognized training by a certified TDI Nitrox instructor. This manual cannot replace professional instruction and good judgment. ISBN: 1-931451-06-2 Product ID #:120001-01Technical Diving International Notes:TDI Understanding Nitrox: Using enriched oxygen mixtures fom ai to 4086 for recreational diving General Notes Nitrox Instructor Guide Welcome to the TDI Nitrox Course! This course is primarily designed to provide a solid education in nitrox, though simultaneously it also will help to prepare a student for subsequent TDI continuing education programs at the technical diver level. Even with only a quick glance through the student manual, it will be clear that this material is not a mere recitation of “do's” and “don'ts.” Such an approach would simply be unfair to the student, since at this level of training the student expects and deserves to also know the “why’s.” Here the student is provided with all appropriate foundational information, re- lated to physics and physiology, to develop an independent understanding of how and why nitrox works. The instructor will note that the student manual now contains all ap- propriate nitrox mathematical formulas, as well as related nitrox reference tables. Again, at this level of training, it is appropriate for the student to at least be introduced to these types of calculations. Further emphasis upon the math, during this course, is left to the discretion of the instructor. The instructor also should note a subtle change in terminology, related to Imperial pressure measurements. Any use of the terms absolute pres- sure and atmospheres absolute, as well as the abbreviation ata, largely has been eliminated from the text. These have been a source of frequent confusion for students in the past, and these terms have sometimes been misapplied, especially in relation to discussions of partial pressure (it is actually an oxymoron to reference pressure in terms of absolute-partial) The preferred terminology is simply atmospheres and atm; these may be appropriately applied to all ambient pressure (or total pressure) and partial pressure measurements. As further explained in the text, in relation to diving, any discussion of pressure naturally will imply ambient pressure (or total pressure), unless specifically indicated otherwise (such as partial pressure of a gas) A series of review questions appear throughout the student manual; these are to be completed by the student while completing each chapter, and the answers should then be reviewed by the instructor. In addition, a comprehensive review is included in the final chapter of the student manual; this final review effectively fulfills the requirements for the student's final exam, However, an alternate exam is also provided in this guide, for atypi cal situations where the instructor feels an additional exam is warranted.Technical Diving International Notes:TDI Understanding Nitrox: Using enriched oxygen mixture ‘om air to 4086 for recreational diving Chapter One: Introduction to Nitrox What is Nitrox ? + Air is 20.95 % oxygen, 78.08% nitrogen, and 0.97% other trace gases, + Air often simply defined as 21% oxygen and 79% nitrogen + Nitrox has more than 21% oxygen, and less than 79% nitrogen + This course covers nitrox mixes of 22% to 40% oxygen + Oxygen is a vital ingredient in metabolism + Nitrogen is physiologically inert, always absorbed into tissues + Additional nitrogen is absorbed during a dive + Nitrox benefits Extended no-deco limits Reduced surface intervals, more dives in a given time Physiological advantage, when used with air tables / air computer + The Down-side: oxygen Some risks are associated with elevated oxygen exposures Can be successfully managed with proper techniques + Brief history of nitrox Historical references dating back to 1800°s Published discussion of nitrox in 1943 (re: decreased risk of DCS) US Navy introduced nitrox in 1959 NOAA launched nitrox program in 1970 Nitrox included in NOAA Diving Manual, second edition, 1979) Specialized (now “technical”) agencies started to appear in 1985 Widely accepted by 1995 + Nitrox is shortened version of Enriched Air Nitrox Abbreviations: EAN, EANx, EAN32 (but not EANx32) + Some alternate names for nitrox NOAA Nitrox I and NOAA Nitrox Il De-Nitrogenated Air® Oxygen Enriched Air SafeAir® Enriched Air + Nitrox is now readily available to sport divers, Dive centers Resort locations Live-aboard dive boats - -Technical Diving International Answer Key - Chapter 1 Review 1. Airis comprised of 21% oxygen and 79% nitrogen 2. Does nitrox have more or less oxygen than air? More 3. BAN is an abbreviation for Enriched Air nitrox. 4, EAN32 contains 32% Oxygen 5. This course includes nitrox mixes in the range of EAN22 to EAN4O 6. Nitrox offers several advantages, without any added risk. False 7. Nitrox training has been available to sport divers since 1985,TDI Understanding Nitrox: rviched oxygen mixtures from air to 40% for recreational diving Chapter Two: Principles of Pressure Ambient Pressure Pressure is the force, or weight, exerted upon person, object, or gas 10 msw=1bar / 33 fsw=1atm The weight of the atmosphere, combined with the weight of the overhead water, determines ambient pressure at depth Dea Oe Ln Ty Depth Pressure Metric | Imperial | bar/atm | Omsw Ofsw 1 10 msw | 33 fsw 2 | 20 msw | 66 fsw 3 30 msw | 99 fsw 4 | 40 msw | 132 fw 5 Depth-to-Pressure Calculation Metri P=(D/10)+1 or Formula la & Ib Imperial: P=(D/33)+1 or Formula 2a & 2b Pressure-to-Depth Calculation Metric: D=(P-1)x10 or Formula 3a & 3b Imperial: D=(P-1)x33 or Formula 4a & 4b P=(D+10)/10 P =(D + 33) /33 D=(Px 10) -10 D=(P x 33) - 33Technical Diving International 10 Table 2 Depth Pressure Metric Imperial bar/atm Omsw Ofsw 1.0 3msw 10 fsw 13 6msw 20 fsw 1.6 9msw 30fsw 19 12msw 40 fsw 22 15 msw 50 fsw 25 18msw 60 fsw 28 21msw 70 fsw 34 24msw 80 fsw 34 27 msw 90 fsw 37 30 msw 100 fsw 40 33msw 110 fsw 43 36msw 120 fsw 46 39msw 130 fsw 49TDI Understanding Nitrox: Using erviched oxyaen mixtures fom air to 40% for recreational diving Boyle’s Law + Defines the effects of ambient pressure upon a diver’s breathing gas Pressure and volume are interrelated, inversely proportional Volume and density are interrelated, inversely proportional Has an impact upon many aspects of diving ‘The total gas pressure, in a diver’s lungs, always will be equal to the ambient pressure Pressure - Volume Changes PY, = Pv, Table 3 Cree Pressure | Volume | Density bar /atm Omsw Ofsw 1 1 xt 1omsw | 33 fsw 2 V2 x2 20msw | 66 fsw 3 V3 x3 30msw | 99 fsw 4 v4 x4 40 msw 132 fsw 5 us x5 + ,Technical Diving International Dalton’s Law + Providesameans ofeffectively segregating and latermanipulating the individual components ofa diver’s breathing mix gases + Partial pressure is directly proportional to the fraction of gas + Gas will flow from areas of higher partial pressure, to areas of lower partial pressure + Gasses will spread out within contained space, in a uniform mixture + Percentages remain constant, but physiological effects change in response to changing partial pressures Table 4 Depth Pressure PO2 PN2 Metric | Imperial | bar/atm | bar/atm | bar/atm Omsw Ofsw 1 0.21 079 10msw | 33 fsw 2 0.42 1.58 20msw | 66 fsw 3 0.63 237 30msw | 99 fsw 4 0.84 3.16 40 msw | 132 fsw 5 1.05 3.95 Determining the Partial Pressure of a Gas PG=PxFG Formula 6a (Metric & Imperial) Determining the Partial Pressure of Oxygen PO2 =P x FO2 Formula 6b (Metric & Imperial) Determining the Partial Pressure of Nitrogen PN2 = P x FN2 Formula 6¢ (Metric & Imperial) 12TDI Understanding Nitrox: Using erviched oxyaen mixtures fom air to 40% for recreational diving Henry's Law Illustrates the mechanisms by which gases move into and out of the tissues within a diver’s body + Gas will dissolve into a liquid, in direct proportion to its partial pressure + In the event of a rapid and significant decrease in pressure, gas may come out of solution within the liquid, forming bubbles + Helps explain on-gassing and off-gassing of nitrogen, and DCS + But human body is not a homogeneous liquid, and thus dive tables or personal dive computers are needed Table 5 eee TTS} Partial Pressure | Maximum Quantity of Gas of Gas bar/atm In Solution 1 x1 2 x2 3 x3 4 x4 5 x5 BTechnical Diving International 14 Answer Key ~ Chapter 2 Re’ Ww 1. Pressure is the force, or weight, exerted upon a diver, object, or gas. 2. At the surface, the ambient pressure is 1 bar / atm. 3. Every 10 msw / 33 few in depth exerts 1 bar / atm in additional pressure, 4, At30 mow / 99 faw, the ambient pressure is 4 bar /atm. 5. Acchange in ambient pressure always has a significant effect upon the breathing gas while it is still inside a scuba cylinder. True or False 6. The pressure of the breathing gas, inside a diver’s lungs during a dive, will be equal to the ambient pressure surrounding the diver (assuming that the diver’s airway remains open) 7. Within a gas mixture, the specific pressure of an individual gas is referred to as the partial pressure of that gas. 8. A gas will always flow from an area of higher partial pressure to an area of lower partial pressure. 9. At20 msw / 66 few the partial pressure of oxygen, in air, is 0.63 bar / at. 10. Regardless of the components in the breathing gas within a cylinder, the gas will be delivered through the regulator in a uniform mixture. True or False 11. The amount of the gas, which will be dissolved into a liquid, depends upon the partial pressure of the gas, and the coefficient of the gas in that liquid. 12. A significant and relatively rapid decrease in ambient pressure may cause gas to come out of solution, creating bubbles. ciTDI Understanding Nitrox: Using ervicheo oxyaen mixture recreational dving Chapter Three: Physiological Effects of Pressure Gas Dynamics move throughout the body, response to partial pressure go into and come out of solution at alveoli + Dissolved gasses are transported through body by blood Nitrogen Dynamics Physiologically inert + Tissues are saturated with nitrogen at surface, prior to dive + Upon descent, pressure increases inside lungs, prompts on-gassing; additional nitrogen moves out of lungs and into tissues + Upon ascent, pressure decreases inside lungs, prompts off-gassing; dissolved nitrogen moves out of tissues and back to lung Decompression Sickness + Tissues can tolerate some degree of super-saturation + When depth / time limits are exceeded, excess gas can come out of solution, forming bubbles; symptoms include: Skin rash and itching PN2 Tingling and numbness Joint and limb pain Paralysis A Respiratory distress Cardiac arrest + Possible contributing factors i Rapid ascent Dehydration Elevated carbon dioxide, resulting from workload; may be influenced by cold or strenuous conditions, older age, diminished health and ‘ fitness, fatigue + Dive tables and/or computers are used to manage nitrogen exposures PNz’ + Cannot guarantee a risk-free dive L + Proper emergency response, if DCS is suspected 15Technical Diving International 16 Oxygen Dynamics + Tends to occur in one direction only, because it’s used in metabolism + Carbon dioxide is by-product of metabolism, off-gassed in respiration + Breathing reflex is triggered by build-up of carbon dioxide CNS Oxygen Toxicity + Body can tolerate some over-oxygenation ‘= levated partial pressure of oxygen can interfere with CNS function + ConVENTID Convulsions Visual Disturbances Euphoria Nausea Tinnitus / Tingling or Twitching Irritability Dizziness / Dyspnea + Convulsions may be first and only symptom + Potentially fatal, due to risk of losing regulator and drowning + Possible contributing factors Elevated carbon dioxide Certain drugs + “If something seems wrong, it is wrong” + Proper emergency response, for convulsions while underwater Pulmonary Oxygen Toxicity + Dry, hacking, non-productive cough + Also may effect other areas of body (hence “whole body toxicity”) + Not much of a concem for sport divers Answer Key ~ Chapter 3 Review 1. Upon descent, the partial pressure of cach gas in the lungs will increase, which causes additional gas to enter into solution in the blood. ciTDI Understanding Nitrox: Using enriched oxygen mixtures fom ai to 4086 for recreational diving 2. When tissues have absorbed all of the nitrogen that is possible at a given ambient pressure, the tissues are considered to be saturated, 3, The pressure gradient, caused by the increased partial pressure of nitrogen in the lungs upon descent, causes the body to begin on- gasing additional nitrogen. 4, All tissues absorb nitrogen at the same rate. ‘True or False 5. When a diver ascends, the decreased partial pressure in the lungs causes the body to begin Off-gasing excess nitrogen 6. Divers use dive tables and/or personal dive computers, to calculate safe limits of nitrogen super-saturation. 7. A dive table or personal dive computer will always guarantee a risk- free dive, in terms of decompression sickness. True or False 8. Ifa diver exceeds the established time limits for a given depth, some of the dissolved nitrogen may come out of solution upon ascent, forming bubbles and resulting in DCS. 9. A diver who exceeds the maximum ascent rate of his tables or computer increases his risk of DCS. True or False 10. Increased workload will increase metabolism, which in tum will increase the body’s output of carbon dioxide. 11. Oxygen at increased partial pressures can short circuit the central nervous system, resulting in convulsions. 12, True or false: With CNS oxygen toxicity, there are always warning signs prior to the onset of convulsions. True or False 13, If something seems Wrong, it is wrong and the diver should abort the dive immediately. 14, Pulmonary toxicity is not much of a concer in traditional sport diving activities. True or False 15. True or false: The pressure of gas in the lungs will always be equal to the surrounding ambient pressure, so long as the diver maintains an open airway, True or False WTechnical Diving International Notes: 18TDI Understanding Nitrox: Using erviched oxyaen mixtures fom air to 40% for recreational diving Chapter Four: Basic Dive Planning Haldane’s Decompression Model + Study conducted at request of Royal Navy + Utilized a mathematical model, to simulate the human body Theoretical tissue compartments Exponential rate of gas absorption — half-times Maximum tissue pressure gradient upon ascent (later ~ M-values) Complex mathematical computation -- algorithm + Used by navy 1907 to 1956 + Basis for subsequent research and refinement Table 6a Table 6b Tr Cana Stirs Genii rang oar x05 . Elapsed On-Gassing Elapsed On-Gassing Time Completed Time Completed Start 0% Start 0% T hour 50% 5 minutes 50% 2hours 75% 10 minutes 75% 3 hours 875% 15 minutes 87.5% 4hours 93.8% 20 minutes 93.8% S hours 96.9% 25 minutes 96.9% 6 hours 98.5% 30 minutes 98.5% 19Technical Diving International Modern Dive Tables Further research, and refinement of Haldane’s work Expanded the number of theoretical ts Recaleulated M-values Reduced the maximum ascent rate(s) Applied dissimilar rates for on-gassing and off-gassing Other modifications to algorithm jue compartments, Not interchangeable Used by a diver to manage his nitrogen exposures Susceptibility to DCS can vary from diver to diver, and can be influenced by other factors (as previously discussed) General features of dive tables Maximum allowable bottom time at a given depth with a given breathing mix (typically air) Amount of additional nitrogen absorbed into the tissues during a dive (typically expressed in terms of a pressure group) Off-gassing of nitrogen during a surface interval between dives (typically expressed in terms of a new pressure group) Amount of residual nitrogen that must be accounted for in any subsequent dive (typically expressed as residual nitrogen time, for a given depth) Students should use whatever tables they are most comfortable with No guarantee that dive will be risk-free US Navy Dive Tables Universal dive tables; military, scientific, commercial, and sport divers TDI version of US Navy dive tables used here for all demonstrations General Rules + All dives are calculated at the deepest depth, even if this depth was only momentary during the dive. + Bottom time is calculated from the beginning of the descent, to the beginning of a direct ascent to the surface. + An optional safety stop may be added, for 3 to 5 minutes at 3 to 6 msw 10 to 20 few; this stop is not included in bottom time. + The maximum ascent rate is 9 msw / 30 fsw per minute. Instructions for Use 20 + Starting atthe top leftof the tables, the first column identifies depth in fow, and the next column, adjacent to depth, specifies the no-decompression limit (maximum allowable time) in minutes, at each depth. + To determine the ending pressure group, follow the depth row across the ciTDI Understanding Nitrox: Using ervicheo oxyaen mixture recreational dving table towards the right, identifying the exact or next greater time; the pressure group is specified at the top and bottom of each column. To determine the new pressure group after a surface interval, follow the ending pressure group column down into the next table and then to the right, to identify the surface interval time in hours and minutes; the new pressure group is specified at the bottom of each column. To identify the residual nitrogen time, follow the new pressure group column down into the third table, to the row specified by the depth of the repetitive dive; the residual nitrogen time is specified in minutes. In planning a repetitive dive, the residual nitrogen time will be subtracted from the no-decompression limit, to determine an adjusted no-decompression limit for that dive. In planning a repetitive dive, the residual nitrogen time also will be added to the actual bottom time, to determine the ending pressure group for that dive. * 2 a 2 a 8 3 A 2Technical Diving International Dive Planning Worksheet + Visual depiction of dive, or series of dives + Helpful in organizing all details in a standard format si PG PG |sI PG PG Depth: Depth: ABT ABT RNT RNT TBT TBT 22 Answer Key - Chapter 4 Review 1. Haldane combined all of his findings into a complex mathematical computation, known as an algorithm, by which he projected a schedule of depth and time limits for divers. 2. Because all dive tables contain exactly the same information, they always are completely interchangeable. True or False 3. Managing nitrogen exposures equates with managing the risk of DCS. 4, Susceptibility to DCS can vary somewhat from diver to diver, and from day to day. 5. Increased workload, during a dive, may increase a diver’s susceptibility to DCS, True or False ciTDI Understanding Nitrox: Using enriched oxygen mixtures fom ai to 4086 for recreational diving 6. The limits, listed on a table, are guaranteed to provide the diver with a risk-free dive. True ot False 7. When using the US Navy dive tables, bottom time is calculated from the beginning of the decent, to the beginning of the ascent. 8. Per the US Navy dive tables, what is the NDL at 21 msw / 70 fsw ? 48 min. 9. Per the US Navy dive tables, what is the ending pressure group after a 60 minute dive at 10 mew /35 fsw ? F 10. Using the US Navy dive tables, and using air as the breathing gas, plan the following series of dives: first dive, 21 msw / 70 few for 45 minutes; surface interval 1:30; second dive, 15 msw / 50 few for 25 minutes, si PG Pa |si PG PG - - J 1:30 ! M 21 15 Depth: | Depth:| oy 70 50 fsw fsw ABT | 45 ABT 25 runt | O RNT 65 Tet | 45 TBT 90 23Technical Diving International Notes: 24TDI Understanding Nitrox: Using enriched oxygen mixture ‘om air to 4086 for recreational diving Chapter Five: Nitrox Concepts Nitrox + Nitrox was developed as a means of reducing nitrogen exposure + Reminder: nitrox has more than 21% oxygen, and less than 79% nitrogen + Reminder: most versatile range is EAN22 to EAN4O + Nitrox: Decreased Nitrogen Extended no-decompression limits Reduced surface intervals, more dives in a given time Physiological advantage + Nitrox: Increased Oxygen Sole purpose, in adding oxygen, is to reduce nitrogen Oxygen provides no other benefit, and introduces new concerns Managing oxygen is similar to managing nitrogen + Helpful to consider nitrogen and oxygen as drugs Dose determined by partial pressure Effect dependent upon duration of exposure Extended Bottom Times + This is the first and perhaps most obvious benefit, + Examples (from student manual) AL 18 mew / 60 fow NDL for Air is 60 minutes NDL for EAN40 is 200 minutes At 30 msw / 100 fow NDL for Air is 25 minutes NDL for AN36 is 40 minutes + Assuming, of course, that the diver has a sufficient gas supply Reduced Surface Intervals + Can be considered as extended but unused no-deco limits + Less nitrogen is on-gassed during dive, thus less to off-gas + Example (from student manual) For two dives of 60 minutes each at 18 msw / 60 fow ... Air requires surface interval of 12+ hours EANAO requires no surface interval 25Technical Diving International 26 Risk of DCS Nitrox used for physiological advantage, within NDL's for air + Validity has been questioned by some, but endorsed by NOAA + Nota panacea for DCS + Not a substitute for diver’s health and fitness + Important: can’t ignore oxygen exposures Balancing the Benefits + Nitrox can do each of the above things effectively, one at a time + Nitrox cannot do everything equally as well, all at the same time + Diver must determine how nitrox will be used Balancing the N2 and 02 Exposures + Must calculate both exposures + One will always be the governing factor, for allowable bottom time or required minimum surface interval Is Nitrox Inherently Safer than Air? + Airalready is “safe” / how can you get any “safer” + Probably an equal risk, if both ate used up to respective NDL's + When used for physiological advantage, nitrox introduces additional risk of CNS oxygen toxicity within recreational depths, which may offset any reduced risk of DCS + DAN statistics have been misinterpreted at times + Attempting any comparison, with DAN statistics, is sort of like comparing “apples to oranges” rather than “apples to apples” Is Nitrox for Deep Diving ? + What’s meant by deep ? + Some (but not all) nitrox mixes can be used within deeper recreational range, from 18 msw to 40 msw / 60 fsw to 130 faw + Naturally, nitrox can be used at shallower depths too + Nitrox is_not appropriate for depths beyond traditional recreational limits ciTDI Understanding Nitrox: Using enriched oxygen mixtures fom ai to 4086 for recreational diving + Ona personal basis, for the student May be used at depths consistent with prior training and experience, Up to traditional recreational depth limits, Will Nitrox Improve Gas Consumption ? + No + Breathing rate is constant Rate is based upon level of carbon dioxide Carbon dioxide is dependent upon workload Under similar circumstances, rate of breathing will be the same for both air and nitrox Will Nitrox Reduce Narcosis ? + No + Other gasses are can also cause narcosis + Oxygen and nitrogen have similar characteristics (weight and solubility), and thus oxygen can be equally as narcotic + Nareosis from excess oxygen might offset any reduction in nitrogen narcosis + Trivia: characteristics of helium (related to weight and solubility) are quite different, and helium is far less narcotic + Additional trivia, if appropriate for locale (not in student manual): characteristics of argon, which is sometimes used for dry suit inflation in cold water, make it far more narcotic than nitrogen Will Nitrox Reduce Post-Dive Fatigue ? + Anecdotal information only + Opinions differ widely Will Nitrox Affect Recompression Therapy ? + No + Big difference between “wet and working” and “dry and resting” + No attendant risk of drowning a7Technical Diving International 28 Should Nitrox be used on Every Dive ? Not necessarily; most use it when it is appropriate ‘+ But what is appropriate for one diver may be very different than what is appropriate for another diver + Each diver should make the decision for each dive, based upon personal training and experience Answer Key - Chapter 5 Review 1. Nitrox is a breathing mixture containing more than 21% oxygen, and less than 79% nitrogen. 2. The amount of additional nitrogen, absorbed during a dive, is directly dependent upon the partial pressure of nitrogen. Besides replacing some of the nitrogen in the breathing mix, the additional oxygen, in nitrox, provides several additional benefits for a diver. True or False 4, In thinking of nitrogen and oxygen as drugs, the effect of each drug will be dependent upon the dose (determined by its partial pressure), combined with the duration of exposure (determined by dive time). 5. Nitrox may be an effective means of extending no-decompression limits. True or False 6. Nitrox may be an effective means of reducing required surface intervals, True or False 7. ‘There is overwhelming statistical evidence that nitrox is an effective means of reducing the risk of DCS. True or False 8. One of the exposures, either nitrogen or OXYgeN, is going to emerge as the governing factor in determining a maximum allowable dive time or a minimum surface interval. ciTDI Understanding Nitrox: Using enriched oxygen mixtures fom ai to 4086 for recreational diving 10. IL Upon completion of this course a diver will be qualified to use nitrox mixes in the range of EAN22 to EAN4O at depths consistent with his prior training and experience, not exceeding the traditional, recreational depth limit. Will nitrox improve air consumption ? True or False Is nitrox less narcotic than air? No Will nitrox preclude recompression therapy, in the event of DCS ? No 29Technical Diving International Notes: 30TDI Understanding Nitrox: Using enriched oxygen mixtures fom ai to 4086 for recreational diving Chapter Six: Nitrox Dive Planning, Part 1 Managing Nitrox Exposures Nitrogen Limits + NDL's and surface intervals are already enumerated for air, on dive tables + Though level is reduced with nitrox, nitrogen still remains a concer + Again, think of nitrogen as a drug — effect is dependent upon dose and duration Equivalent Air Depth + When using nitrox, it is equivalent to diver breathing air at a shallower depth, for same duration (same bottom time) Table 7 ee unr oce Depth Depth Ambient Air EAN32 EAN40 Metric | Imperial |',.¢7atm | PO2 | PN2| Po2 | PN2 | Po2 | PN2 Omsw | Ofsw 1 0.21 | 0.79] 0.32 | 0.68 | 0.40 | 0.60 10 msw | 33 fsw 2 0.42 | 1.58| 0.64 | 1.36 | 0.80 | 1.20 20msw | 66 fsw 3 0.63 | 237] 0.96 | 2.04 | 1.20 30msw| 99 fsw 4 0.84 | 3.16| 1.28 | 2.72 | 1.60 40 msw | 132 fsw 5 1.05 |3.95| 160 | 340 | * * Equivalent Air Depth Metric: EAD=[(FN2/.79) x (D + 10)]-10 Formula 7 Imperial: EAD =[ (FN2/.79) x (D + 33)]-33 Formula 8 3Technical Diving International .—-s7____.Mmao———— © Equivalent Ai Depths, Partial Pressures of Oxygen and Maximu m Operating Depths COLEEEN eee ess i Petree ete eter ate ete ster a Stee ete Tere ae F eee ee ee ay : Se ‘ : Perea ale ele GE Maximum Operating Depths ED eee x bE ee eee beac at 32TDI Understanding Nitrox: Using enriched oxygen mixture ‘om air to 4086 for recreational diving u g the EAD with Air Dive Tables When using nitrox, the no-decompression limit is calculated as usual on the air dive tables, simply with the EAD used in place of the actual depth + The ending pressure group, for any dive, is also calculated in the usual manner, again with the EAD used in place of the actual depth + Surface interval credit is calculated in the normal fashion (after all, regardless of the mix that a diver may use at depth, he will still be breathing air back on the surface during the surface interval) + Inplanning fora repetitive dive, the diver may use the same or a different nitrox mix; in either case, the EAD is again used to determine the residual nitrogen time + Important: In calculating residual nitrogen time, the diver should base these calculations on the nitrox mix that will be used on the repetitive dive + The residual nitrogen time is then added to the actual time at the EAD, to determine the ending pressure group Dive Planning Worksheet with EANx and EAD ‘Same worksheet as previously, but with additional information added si PG Pa |si PG PG Depth: EAN_ Depth: EAN EAD: EAD: ABT ABT RNT RNT TeT BT 33Technical Diving International 34 Alternate NOAA Nitrox Tables NOAA adopted EAN32 and EAN36 as well-suited for NOAA divers + These mixes are designated NOAA Nitrox I and NOAA Nitrox II + NOAA used US Navy tables with EAD tables, to develop specific tables for these two nitrox mixes + Some divers like them, others find no use for them Answer Key - Chapter 6 Review 1. Though itis reduced when nitrox is used, the diver’s level of nitrogen exposure nevertheless remains a concern, True or Fals: 2. EAD is an abbreviation for Equivalent Air Depth 3. What is the EAD for EAN30 at 30 msw / 100 fsw ? 27 msw/ 90 fsw 4. What is the EAD for EAN3S5 at 24 msw / 80 fsw ? 18 msw/ 60 fsw. 5. What is the EAD for EAN4O at 21 msw /70 fsw? 15 msw/ 50 fsw 6. Per the US Navy dive tables, what is the NDL for EAN32 at 30 msw / 100 fw? 30 minutes 7. Per the US Navy dive tables, what is ending pressure group, after a 30 minute dive with EAN0 at 12 msw / 40 fw? © 8. Using the US Navy dive tables, complete the planning worksheet for the following series of dives: first dive, EAN3S at 24 msw / 80 fw for 50 minutes; surface interval 1:00; second dive, EAN40 at 18 msw / 60 fsw for 40 minutes.TDI Understanding Nitrox: en mixtures fom ai to 4056 for recreational diving Metric si PG Pc |si PG PG - - 1 1:00 H L Depth: 24m \EAN35) Depth: 1gm \EAN40 EAD 18m EAD 12m ABT | 50 ABT | 40 RNT | 0 RT | 74 Tet | 50 Tet | 114 Depth: EAD soft 6oft ABT RNT TeT EAN 35) 50 50 Depth: EAD 6oft 4oft ABT RNT TBT EAN 40 40 74 114 35Technical Diving International Notes: 36TDI Understanding Nitrox: rviched oxygen mixtures from air to 40% for recreational diving Chapter Seven: Nitrox Dive Planning, Part 2 Managing Oxygen Exposures Oxygen Limits + Nitrox has higher partial pressure of oxygen + CNS oxygen toxicity becomes an issue, within recreational depths + Susceptibility can vary Diver to diver Influenced by carbon dioxide levels + Again, consider oxygen as a drug + Specific exposure levels established by NOAA Table 8 Po2 Single Dive Limit | Daily Limit bar/atm Minutes Minutes 16 45 150 15 120 180 14 150 180 13 180 210 12 210 240 11 240 270 10 300 300 09 360 360 08 450 450 07 570 570 06 720 720 37Technical Diving International + Limits should be reduced, as dictated by conditions + NOAA procedural information Ifmore than one dive is made at a PO2 of 1.6 bar/atm, asuggested surface interval of at least 90 minutes is advised between dives. If, however, one or more dives in a 24-hour petiod have reached the time limit for a normal single exposure, a minimum surfa interval of two hours is recommended before resuming diving. If diving in a 24-hour period reaches the daily time limit, a minimum surface interval of 12 hours is recommended before resuming diving, Determining Personal PO2 Limits Maximum PO2 of 1.6 bar / atm is appropriate at times + Sometimes a diver may want to reduce PO2 levels, Added conservatism, leaving some room for diver error or other contingency Bottom time longer that 45 minutes (max allowed at 1.6 bar atm) Imposed time constraints, beyond diver’s control More dives in a single day, than allowed at higher exposures + Responsibility of the diver, to evaluate circumstances and select, appropriate nitrox mix Calculating the Oxygen Dose + Dose relates to partial pressure + Same formula, as introduced in prior discussion of Datton’s Law Determining the Partial Pressure of Oxygen = P x FO, Formula 6b (Metric & Imperial) + Tables provide a no-math alternative . +2 w Psitelelsielsiulele late later alate le] \ ‘TDISDI Combined Nitrox Tables, Side One (Metric) TDI Understanding Nitrox: Using enriched oxygen mixture 5 1 REEF ESSE ECE CAE a x Peta pelts Tape fete [els |e [ela ps [se B tee eererrrirerererereet | 120 ee Pes STS | ‘om air to 4086 for recreational diving ‘TDI-SDI Combined Nitrox Tables, Side One (Imperial) 39Technical Diving International Calculating the Maximum Operating Depth Deepest depth at which a selected PO2 will not be exceeded Determining the Maximum Operating Depth (MOD) p= poz FO2 Formula 9 (Metric & Imperial) saint Dnt, Part Posse apn act Babe Operating Debris trates 40TDI Understanding Nitrox: Using erviched oxyaen mixtures fom air to 40% for recreational diving Calculating the Best Mix + Highest nitrox mix, that can be used at a given depth and PO2, to maximize the benefits of nitrox Determining the Best Mix FO2 = PO2 P Formula 10 (Metric & Imperial) Equivalent Air Depths, Partial Pressures of Oxygen and May = abee~ alsa | Bees eee Tee a | gee Se ol ead - iT) \\aximum Operating Depths EN es = aTechnical Diving International The “Circle-T” Equation + Dose = multiply FO2 by total pressure + MOD = divide selected PO2 by FO2 + Best Mix = divide selected PO2 by total pressure Calculating Cumulative CNS Exposures The time-based only work for dives with the same PO2 Otherwise must convert actual dive time to percentage of CNS limit Determining Percentage of Exposure Actual Time Time Limi Formula I (Metric & Imperial) Exposure = + Use single dive limits as cumulative limits, when repetitive dives are separated by relatively brief surface intervals + For simplicity wit overall limits PO2 of 1.4 or lower, may use daily limits as Oxygen Exposure Time Limits (CNS “Clock”) @ vi % Ele eee wee SEIS 5 2TDI Understanding Nitrox: Using erviched oxyaen mixtures fom air to 40% for recreational diving Oxygen Exposure Time Limits (CNS2Clock”) REESE ery Tee en ayers rs Dive Planning Worksheet with CNS% + Same worksheet as previously, but with additional information added Alternate Surface Interval 02 Credit Tables + NOAA provides surface interval credit in terms of extended daily limits + Onoccasion, may encounter some other system, perhaps with a surface interval credit table of some sort + Don’t use, unless you understand its origin and basis + Don’t use without proper training PG | st PG PG Depth: EAN, Depth: EAN EAD: EAD: ABT ABT RNT CNS% RNT CNS% BT BT 43Technical Diving International Answer Key - Chapter 7 Review 1. When using nitrox, the diver is exposed to a higher partial pressure of oxygen, at a given depth, compared to the same dive on ait. 2. Per NOAA, the maximum oxygen dose at any time is 1.6 bar / atm. 3. What is the single dive time limit for a PO2 of 1.2 bar/ atm? 210 minutes 4, If more than one dive is made at a PO2 of 1.6 bar / atm, a suggested surface interval of at least 90 minutes is advised between dives. 5. Ifone or more dives in a 24-hour period have reached the time limit for 4 normal single exposure, a minimum surface interval of tWo hours is recommended before resuming diving, 6. Ifdiving in 24-hour period reaches the maximum daily limit, the diver should spend a minimum surface interval of 12 hours is recommended before resuming diving. 7. Whatis the oxygen dose for EAN3S at 24 msw//80 fw? 1.2 bar/atm 8. What is the MOD for EAN33, at a maximum PO2 of 1.4? 32msw/ 107 fsw 9. What is the best mix for a dive to 15 msw / 50 fw, and a maximum PO2 of 1.6? EAN4O 10. A diver who completes a 25 minute dive at a PO2 of 1.5 bar/ atm will have been exposed to 21 % of his single dive CNS limit, 11. A diver who completes a 45 minute dive at a PO2 of 1.4 bar / atm will have been exposed to 25 % of his daily CNS limit 12, Using the US Navy dive tables, complete the planning worksheet for the following series of dives: first dive, EAN40 at 18 msw / 60 few for 60 minutes; surface interval 1:00; second dive, EAN4O at 15 msw / 50 faw for 45 minutes, “ +TDI Understanding Nitrox: en mixtures fom ai to 4056 for recreational diving Metric: sl PG Pasi PG PG - - G 1:00 F L Depth: 18m \EAN4O Depth: 15m \EAN4O EAD 12m EAD 12m ABT | 60 ABT | 45 RNT | 0 CNS% rnt | 55 | | cns% TeT | 60 295/254 TBT | 100 | | 215/194 - G 1:00 F K Depth: soft \EAN 40, Depth: soft \EAN4O EAD 40 ft EAD 40 ft ABT | 60 ast | 45 RNT | 0 CNS% rnt | 55 | | cns% Tet | 60 29s/25d TBT | 100 | |ars/oa 4sTechnical Diving International Notes:TDI Understanding Nitrox: Using enriched oxygen mixtures fom ai to 4086 for recreational diving Chapter Eight: Personal Dive Computers Overview of Dive Computers Active divers regularly use a PDC + Underwater data monitor and electronic data calculator + Computes the amount of time that this diver can remain at current depth, and still be able to make a direct (no-stop) ascent to the surface + SDI (recreational affiliate of TDI) is currently the only major dive training organization to include PDC’s for all diving activities PDC Dive Mode Displays Depth, current and maximum + Dive time oon + Remaining no-deco limit ame oa + Gas loading air + Ascent warming on + Other information tou sarc Additional PDC Modes + Log Book Mode + Planning Mode Nitrox-Programmable Dive Computers + Algorithm focuses upon nitrogen exposures, similar to dive tables + Common algorithms: Buhimann; new bubble models (like VPM / RGBM) + When nitrox mix is input, “shifts” algorithm, similar to use of EAD tables + Also calculates oxygen exposures, similar to “CNS Clock” method + Will modify display information, to reflect more restrictive limit + Nitrox values, once input, are incorporated into all functions + Beware of default settings, in event of any delay after input 47Technical Diving International + May be more precise than dive tables, because calculations are based upon actual data, including time spent at intermediate depths ‘Some view this as an advantage (more time) Some view this as a disadvantage (no built-in margin) + Some allow option of other personal settings + Like tables, PDC’s cannot guarantee a risk-free dive Using Nitrox with Air-Only Dive Computers + Similar function, except for oxygen-related calculations + Not feasible to extend bottom times, or reduce surface intervals + Some models have optional gauge mode + Will accommodate using nitrox for physiological advantage, but diver will need to independently monitor oxygen exposures Other PDC Notes + “Your computer doesn’t know what you’ve done, it only knows what it has done” + Forteliability, PDC must be with diver on every dive + Two buddies shouldn't share a single computer on same dive + Follow more conservative PDC in the buddy team + Inevent of failure, follow manufacturer's recommendations + Inevent of failure, may be able to switch over to dive tables Answer Key - Chapter 8 Review 1. While using a personal dive computer, the diver always can be assured of a completely risk-free dive. True or False 2. The three most common operating modes of a personal dive computer are Dive Mode, Log Book Mode, and Planning Mode. . #TDI Understanding Nitrox: Using enriched oxygen mixture ‘om air to 4086 for recreational diving 10. Many PDC’s include an audible and/or visual waming, to alert the diver to an unacceptably rapid ascent rate. In addition to the nitrogen-related calculations, a typical nitrox: -programmable dive computer will calculate CNS exposure information. Even when the PDC and dive tables are based upon the same algorithm, there may be some difference in the allowable bottom times provided by each, True or False A personal dive computer may be more precise that dive tables, because the PDC calculations include not only the diver’s maximum depth, but also the actual time spent at all intermediate depths. True or False When using an air-only PDC with nitrox, within traditional recreational depth limits, the diver need not be concerned about CNS exposures, True or False “Your computer doesn’t know what you've done, it only knows what ithas done.” When there is any difference between the NDL limits, displayed by each diver’s PDC, the buddy team should always adhere to the limits of the more conservative dive computer. In the event of a PDC failure during a dive, many manufacturers suggest that the dive should be terminated, a safety stop should be completed, and then an extended surface interval should be observed before resuming any diving activities 49Technical Diving International Notes: 50TDI Understanding Nitrox: Using enriched oxygen mixture ‘om air to 4086 for recreational diving Chapter Nine: Getting The Gas Nitrox Production Methods Nitrox must be manufactured (doesn’t exist in nature) + Some dive f ilities may purchase nitrox, but most make it on-site + Many continue to purchase oxygen, for use in blending Commercial Grade Oxygen Medical Grade Oxygen Aviation Grade Oxygen Membrane Separation + Filtration process, removing some of the nitrogen from air + Final mix depends upon permeable membrane being used + Sometimes nitrox is referred to as De-Nitrogenated Air + Can produce higher EAN mix, for use in other blending methods Continuous In-Line Blending + Mixing of oxygen (or higher EAN mix) with air + Sometimes manual, sometimes computer-controlled + May vary mix, through simple valve adjustment Partial Pressure Blending + Popular, because of simplicity + Most labor-intensive, requiring a skilled blender + Takes time (tank must be allowed to cool, during fill process, for accuracy) + Any mix can be readily blended Compressor Systems + Gas pump, mechanically compresses gas into smaller space, significantly increasing its pressure in the process 31Technical Diving International + Air quality is a concern Contamination can occur at intake Contamination may be due to poor maintenance / wear and tear + Carbon monoxide + Oxygen-compatible air + Cascade storage / delivery systems + Pre-mixed nitrox banks General Equipment Considerations Usually no special scuba equipment is needed, but a diver’s existing gear may need to be prepared (cleaned) + First follow local regulations and manufacturer's specifications + General “Forty Percent Rule” Applies to regulator assembly and related components Usually does not apply to cylinders (partial pressure blending) Scuba Cylinder Considerations Tank band (or wrap) + Nitrox visual inspection decal + Contents label Oxygen level in the mix MOD as well as the PO2 used to calculate MOD. Name of the dive center or resort who filled the cylinder Initials of the diver who analyzed the mixture Date that mixture was analyzed + Diver is responsible for maintaining oxygen-clean status + Use nitrox-compatible air, for air fills Obtaining a Nitrox Fill + Most nitrox divers have own cylinders; many facilities have rentals + Procedures may vary, from facility to facility 2 +TDI Understanding Nitrox: Using enriched oxygen mixture ‘om air to 4086 for recreational diving + Time requirements also may vary, from facility to facility + Accepted variance — plus or minus one percent of desired mix + Gas analysis Responsibility of diver, who will be using the mix Analyzer senses PO2 (not FO2) Turn on and let it warm up; wait for readout to stabilize Calibrate to ambient air, or compressed air from another cylinder Once calibrated, readout should be 20.9 or 21.0 Then sample gas from nitrox eylinder + Ifdiver is unfamiliar with a particular analyzer May have facility rep perform analysis Diver should witness analysis + Check cylinder pressure + Complete contents label + Complete facility log, Answer Key - Chapter 9 Review 1. The method of nitrox production that is based upon the principles of Dalton’s Law is known as partial pressure blending, 2. A diver should never use air or nitrox that emits any Odor or that has any taste, or that seems to induce headache, nausea, or other sensation of illness, because it may be contaminated 3. Specialized scuba equipment is always required for nitrox diving. True or False 4, According to the forty percent rule, any nitrox mixture containing 40% or less oxygen may be handled as if it were ait, while any mixture over 40% requires special Oxygen handling requirements, 33Technical Diving International 54 12, The forty percent rule normally applies to the regulator and related components, but it usually does not apply to the scuba cylinder. ‘Some materials, including those used in certain lubricants, may pose a fire or explosion hazard in the presence of high concentrations of oxygen, To maintain its oxygen clean status, a nitrox cylinder can only be filled with nitrox or oxygen - compatible air. Itis standard practice to clearly identify any cylinder, used for nitrox, by a broad green and yellow band encircling the cylinder, with the words nitrox or enriched air nitrox clearly imprinted. The information recorded on the cylinder contents label should include the oxygen level in the mix, the maximum operating depth as well as the PO2 used to calculate this maximum operating depth, the name of the dive center ot resort who filled the cylinder, the initials of the diver who analyzed the mixture, and the date that it was analyzed. The analyzer contains a fuel cell whose electrical conductivity varies in response to the partial pressure of oxygen in a gas mixture. It is important to calibrate the analyzer, using either ambient air or compressed air from another scuba cylinder, prior to sampling the contents of a nitrox cylinder. Ifa diver is unfamiliar with a particular analyzer, itis acceptable to request that a facility representative operates the analyzer, so long as the diver himself witnesses the analysis,TDI Understanding Nitrox: Usins enriches oxygen mixtures fom at to 40% for recreational ving Notes: rt sTechnical Diving International Notes: 56TDI Understanding Nitrox: Using enriched oxygen mixtures fom ai to 4086 for recreational diving Chapter Ten: What’s Next? Practical Exercise + The student manual contains space for notes, copies of cylinder contents labels, and a sample facility nitrox log, for the student's use + Recommended: tour of the facility’s compressor and nitrox systems What method of nitrox blending is used at this facility ? Are any mixes readily available (pethaps pre-mixed and banked), and are others available upon request ? ‘What is the procedure, a this facility, when requesting a nitrox fill? How long will it usually take, to get a nitrox cylinder filled ? + Required: analysis of nitrox mix ‘What type of oxygen analyzer do they have at this facility, and how is it used ? Instructor demonstration Student performanc Final Exam + The student manual contains a final review, which will fulfil the requirements for the student's final exam + When deemed appropriate by the instructor, a separate final exam also may be administered; the additional exam, approved for such use, is included in this instructor guide Then it’s Time to Dive! + If training dives are included in the course, the instructor should review those details + Ifo dives are included, the instructor may take this opportunity to briefly discuss local diving, specifically as it relates to nitrox 37Technical Diving International 58 + Encourage the students to get out diving Details with nitrox relate to planning, benefits relate to diving During gear assembly, double-check the contents label During pre-dive safety check, buddies confirm their nitrox mixes Confirm that PDC (if any) is properly set Once in the water, simply follow your dive plan, as calculated with your dive tables or personal dive computer, as usual. Continuing Education + The student manual briefly addresses training opportunities available through TDI, SDI, and ERDI c instructor should take this opportunity to discuss any scheduled training programs, at this facility, that may be of interest to the students, Answer Key - Chapter 10 Final Exam L.A certified TDI Nitrox Diver is qualified to use nitrox mixes in the N 22 to EAN 40. range of E 2. A certified TDI Nitrox Diver is qualified to use nitrox at depths consistent with his prior training and experience, up to the traditional recreational depth limit of 40 msw / 130 few. The proper use of dive tables and/or a personal dive computer will guarantee a risk-free dive. True or False 4, When using nitrox, the diver should monitor both his nitrogen exposures (no-deco limits) and his oxygen exposures (CNS limits). True or False ciTDI Understanding Nitrox: Using enriched oxygen mixtures fom ai to 4086 for recreational diving 5. Pressure is the force or weight, exerted upon a diver, object, or gas. 6. As pressure increases upon a gas in a flexible container, will the volume of that gas increase or decrease in proportion ? 7. As pressure increases upon a gas in a flexible container, will the density of that gas increase or decrease in proportion ? 8, At24 msw / 80 few, the ambient pressure is 3.4 bar / atm. 9. Ifthe gas in a scuba cylinder lasts 90 minutes at the surface, it will last 30 minutes at 20 msw / 66 fsw. 10, The pressure of the breathing gas, inside a diver’s lungs during a dive, will be equal to the ambient pressure surrounding the diver (provided that the diver’s airway remains open). True or False 11. At 30 msw / 99 fw the partial pressure of oxygen, in air, is 0.84 bar / atm, 12, Will the use of nitrox reduce the efleets of narcosis during a dive ? No 13, Increased workload, during a dive, may increase a diver’s susceptibility to both decompression sickness and CNS oxygen toxicity, True or False 14, Per the US Navy dive tables, with air, what is the NDL at 27 msw / 90 fw ? 30 minutes, 15. Per the US Navy dive tables, with air, what is the ending pressure group after a 60 minute dive at 15 msw /50 fw? 1 16, Nitrox may be an effective means of extending no-decompression limits. True or False 17. Nitrox may be an effective means of reducing required surface intervals, True or False 18. There is overwhelming statistical evidence that nitrox is inherently safer than air, True or False 39Technical Diving International 60 19. When using nitrox for physiological advantage and adhering to the no-deco limits of air tables or an air computer, the relatively brief no-decompression limits will preclude any possibility of CNS oxygen toxicity. ‘True or False 20. Because nitrox has a higher content of oxygen, and because the diver will be inhaling more oxygen with each breath, his gas consumption rate should significantly improve with the use of nitrox. Truc or False 21. Because nitrox contains a lower content of nitrogen, the diver will ‘experience less narcosis with the use of nitrox. True or False 22. What is the EAD for EAN40 at 21 msw /70 few? 15 msw/50 fsw 23. Per the US Navy dive tables, what is the NDL for EAN33 at 30 msw: 100 few? 39 minutes 24, Per the US Navy dive tables, what is ending pressure group, after a 65 minute dive with EAN40 at 12 msw / 40 fsw? F 25. There is little or no concern about CNS oxygen toxicity, while using nitrox within recreational depth limits. True or False 26. In the event of CNS oxygen toxicity, the diver will experience other symptoms, as a warning, prior to the onset of convulsions, True or False. 27. Per NOAA, the maximum PO2 at any time is 1.6 bar / atm. 28, If more than one dive is made at a PO2 of 1.6 bar / atm, a suggested surface interval of at least 90 minutes is advised between dives. 29. If one or more div ina 24-hour period have reached the time limit for a normal single exposure, the diver should spend a minimum of two hours at a normoxic PO2 before resuming diving, 30. If diving in a 24-hour period reaches the maximum daily limit, the diver should spend a minimum of 12 hours at a normoxic PO2 before diving again. 31, What is the single dive time limit for a PO2 of 1.3 bar/ atm? 180 minutes 32, Whats the oxygen dose for EAN34 at 24 msw /80 fsw? 1.3 bar/atm ciTDI Understanding Nitrox: Using enriched oxygen mixtures fom ai to 4086 for recreational diving 33, Whatis the oxygen dose for EAN32 at 30 msw/100fsw? 1.4bar/atm. 34. Whatis the MOD for EAN36, ata maximum PO2 of 1.4729msw/95 fsw 35. Whatis the MOD for EAN40, at a maximum PO2 of 1.6? 30msw/99 fsw 36 What is the best mix for a dive to 15 msw / 50 fw, and a maximum PO2of 1.4? EAN4O 37. What is the best mix fora dive to 30 msw / 99 few, and a maximum PO2 of 1.5? EAN37 38, A diver who completes a 30 minute dive at a PO2 of 1.6 bar / atm will have been exposed to 67 % of his single dive CNS limit, 39. A diver who completes a 45 minute dive at a PO2 of 1.3 bar / atm will have been exposed to 21 % of his daily CNS limit, 40. The three most common operating modes of a personal dive computer are Dive Mode, Log Book Mode, and Planning Mode, 41. True or false: It is an appropriate and accepted practice for the two divers, in a buddy team, to share a single computer between them for their dive, since they will be diving exactly the same profile. True or False 42. The three grades of oxygen are commercial, medical, and aviation 43. The three methods of producing nitrox include continuous in-line blending, partial pressure blending, and membrane separation, 44, The forty percent rule normally applies to the regulator and its related components, but it usually does not apply to the scuba cylinder. 45, Its standard practice to clearly identify any cylinder, used for nitrox, by a broad green and yellow band encircling the cylinder, with the words nitrox or enriched air nitrox clearly imprinted. 46. An oxygen analyzer responds to the FO2 in the gas mixture, and not the PO2, True or False 47. In calibrating an oxygen analyzer, the reading should be set to 20.9 or 21.0 prior to sampling the contents of a nitrox cylinder. 61Technical Diving International 48, The information recorded on the cylinder contents label should include the oxygen level in the mix, the maximum operating depth as well as the PO2 used to calculate this maximum operating depth, the name of the dive center or resort who filled the cylinder, the initials of the diver who analyzed the mixture, and the date that it was analyzed, 49. Using the US Navy dive tables, complete the planning worksheet for the following series of dives: first dive, EAN34 at 30 msw / 100 fsw for 33 minutes; surface interval 0:45; second dive, EAN40 at 18 msw 1 60 few for 44 minutes. sl PG Pa |si PG PG - - 1 0:45 ! M Depth: 30m \EAN34 Depth: 13m \EAN 40, EAD 24m EAD 12m ABT | 33 ABT | 44 rnt | 0 CNS% rnt | 85 || cns% tet | 33 22s/19d TBT | 129 | |2is0a sI PG Pa |st PG PG - - 1 0:45 ! M ft! Depth: 100 \EAN34 Depth: co ft \EAN40 EAD s0ft EAD 40ft ABT | 33 ABT | 44 Runt | 0 CNS% rnt | 85 || cns% tet | 33 2as/isd TT | 129 | | 21s04 62 ciTDI Understanding Nitrox: en mixtures from arto 4086 for recreational diving 50, Using the US Navy dive tables, complete the planning worksheet for the following series of dives: first dive, EAN30 at 33 msw / 110 fsw for 14 minutes; surface interval 1:30; second dive, EAN38 at 24 msw 80 fsw for 31 minutes. Metric: si PG PG | st PG PG - - E 1:30 D J Depth: 23m \EAN30, Depth: 24m \EAN38 EAD 30m EAD 18m Ast | 14 ABT | 31 RNT o CNS% RNT | 24 | | CNS% tet | 14 | | tosis teat | 55 | j2ssriea pa st PG PG E 1:30 D J Depth: 110/t \EAN30, Depth: soft \EAN38 EAD 100ft EAD 6oft ABT | 14 ast | 31 Rnt | 0 CNS% runt | 24 | | cns% Tat | 14 | | rosea TBT | 55 | |2si0¢ 63Technical Diving International TDI Nitrox Diver Course Alternate Final Exam This exam is a learning tool, used to identify weak areas of understanding. It is open book, and open notes. Please use standard US Navy tables for this exam, Feel free to use a calculator. 1. Will the proper use of dive tables or a personal dive computer guarantee a risk-free nitrox dive ? 2. What is the PO2 of air at 30 msw / 99 few ? 3. What type of oxygen toxicity is a concem for sport divers ? 4. What is the depth (msw / fiw) of 2 bar / atm ? What is the best mix, with a maximum PO2 of 1.4 ata, at a depth of 20 msw / 99 fow ? 6. What does “Con” stand for, in the abbreviation “ConVENTID” ? 7. What is the MOD for EAN36, with a PO2 of 1.6 ata? 8, When using nitrox, the diver should monitor both his nitrogen exposures (no-deco limits) and his oxygen exposures (CNS limits), True or False? 9, What is the EAD, for EAN 32 at 24 msw / 80 fsw ? 10. Name one primary cause of carbon monoxide in a scuba cylinder ? 1, What is the NOAA single dive exposure limit, for a PO2 of 1.5 ata? 12, What is the required minimum surface interval, when a diver reaches 100% of the NOAA single dive exposure limit ? 13, What is the NOAA daily limit, for a PO2 of 1.6 bar / atm ? 14, A certified TDI Nitrox Diver is qualified to use nitrox at depths consistent with his prior training and experience, up to the traditional recteational depth limit of 40 msw / 130 few. True or False? “ +TDI Understanding Nitrox: Using ervicheo oxyaen mixture recreational dving 15, Please complete the dive planning worksheet, below, for the following dives, to determine the ending pressure group and single dive CNS% exposures: First Dive - EAN32, 27 msw / 90 fow, for 25 minutes Surface Interval - 1:00 Second Dive - EAN36, 18 msw / 60 faw, for 40 minutes sl PG Pa fst PG PG Depth: EAN Depth: EAN EAD EAD ABT ABT RNT CNS% RNT CNS% TeT Tet Student Statement: Thave reviewed the questions with my instructor and understand those I have missed, I am satisfied with the information and feel confident to operate at the level of TDI Nitrox Diver, to the limits I have been trained, without supervision, Signature: Date: Printed Name: 6sTechnical Diving International 66 TDI Nitrox Diver Course Alternate Final Exam This exam is a learning tool, used to identify weak areas of understanding. Itis open book, and open notes. Please use standard US Navy tables for this exam, Feel free to use a calculator. 1. Will the proper use of dive tables or a personal dive computer guarantee a risk-free nitrox dive ? No 2. What is the PO2 of air at 30 msw /99 fw? 0.84 bar/atm 3. What type of oxygen toxicity is a concem for sport divers ? CNS 4, What is the depth (msw / few) of 2 bar / atm? 10 msw / 33 few 5, What is the best mix, with a maximum PO2 of 1.4 ata, at a depth of 30 msw/99 fw? EAN35, 6. What does “Con” stand for, in the abbreviation “ConVENTID” ? Convulsions 7. What is the MOD for EAN36, with a PO2 of 1.6 ata? 34msw/ 113 fsw 8, When using nitrox, the diver should monitor both his nitrogen exposures (no-deco limits) and his oxygen exposures (CNS limits). True or False 9. What is the EAD, for EAN 32 at 24 msw’/ 80 few? 21 msw/70 fsw 10. Name one primary cause of carbon monoxide in a scuba cylinder ? Contaminated Intake, Poor Maintenance, or Wear and Tear 11, What is the NOAA single dive exposure limit, for a PO2 of 1.5 ata? 120 min 12. What is the required minimum surface interval, when a diver reaches 100% of the NOAA single dive exposure limit? 2 hours 13. What is the NOAA daily limit, for a PO2 of 1.6 bar / atm? 150 min ciTDI Understanding Nitrox: Using enriched oxygen mixtures fom ai to 4086 for recreational diving 14, A certified TDI Nitrox Diver is qualified to use nitrox at depths consistent with his prior training and experience, up to the traditional recreational depth limit of 40 msw / 130 fw. True or False 15. Please complete the dive planning worksheet, below, for the following dives, to determine the ending pressure group and single dive CNS% exposures’ First Dive - EAN32, 27 msw / 90 fw, for 25 minutes Surface Interval - 1:00 Second Dive - EAN36, 18 msw / 60 fsw, for 40 minutes Metric: si PG PG | st PG PG - - G 1:00 F L Depth: 27m \EAN32 Depth: 18m \EAN 36, EAD 24m EAD 15m ABT | 25 ABT | 40 RNT 9 CNS% RNT | 42 | | CNS% Tet | 25 14 Tet | 82 19 Imperial: si PG Pa fst PG PG - - G 1:00 F L Depth: 90 ft \EAN32 Depth: soft \EAN36 EAD 80 ft EAD 50 ft ast | 25 ast | 40 RNT | 0 CNS% Rnt | 42 | | cns% tet | 25 tet | 82 19 ry °ISBN; 1.931451.062