The answer to this question will depend on a number of factors. These include your size and stamina as well as the depth to which you intend to descend. There are a host of other factors, including the rate at which you may need a breath of air, that will come into play. These will affect the length of your dive.
At a level of about 1 atm and 3,000 psi, a mini-scuba tank such as the modern Scorkl model will be able to hold an average of 60 breaths. This figure is based on the assumption that the size of your breath is roughly 1.6 liters.
If your inhale/exhale cycle is about 10 per minute, or a single breath per average of 6 seconds, you may be able to spend up to 6 minutes underwater at a level of 1 atm. If you can manage a somewhat slower cycle of 6 breaths per minute, or 1 breath every 10 seconds, you may be able to last up to 10 minutes below the surface of the water.
Keep in mind the cycle times being listed here are somewhat less than average. However, you can achieve them with a bit of experience under your belt. They are listed here because they are the maximum goals that a person with a few serious dives under their belt may be able to profit by striving for.
If you are an experienced free diver or spear fisher, you may be able to use a min scuba tank such as the Scorkl model for quite a bit longer. This will be achieved largely through your ability to take a breath only when you absolutely need to. In such a case, your time under the surface of the water may last up to an hour.
How Many Years Does A Mini Scuba Tank Last Till It Needs Replacement?
This is a question to which no definitive answer can at present be given. However, most scuba diving experts recommend that you replace your tanks every 3 to 5 years. This will depend on the amount of wear and tear that your individual tank may have undergone in that time. Rigorous and regular testing is highly recommended.
There are a number of tests that scuba and mini scuba tanks need to go through in order to ensure that they are safe to continue diving with. For example, you need to give your tank a full visual test at least once per year. This can be handled on your behalf by a certified expert.
Your mini scuba tech will release the air from the tank, carefully remove the valve, and then inspect both the inside and outside areas. The object here will be to check for the presence of cracks or other forms of decomposition. We highly recommend making a tradition of this simple test.
How Long Does It Take To Refill A Mini Scuba Tank
Most mini scuba tanks will take about 30 seconds to fill up. This figure is based on the experience of filling up a model of average size. Some units are larger in both size and oxygen capacity. These larger models may take anywhere from 45 seconds to a full 60 seconds to fill to their absolute capacity.
There is no one overarching answer to this question. This is because there are a wide variety of scuba and mini scuba models available on the market. The best answer that can be given is one that is based on the above named figures. This is because they represent the average air fill time for the models that are currently available.
How To Safely Refill A Mini Scuba Tank
First, check the total level of tank compliance. If you can’t get a satisfactory level, don’t use it. This is all the more true if the tank is an older one that you have not checked in quite some time.
Next, if you find any extra air left in the tank, let it out. Don’t put more air in the tank unless there is under 10 pounds of pressure currently inside of it.
Your next step should be to check carefully for any damage. Also be on the lookout for any loose objects. Check the tank for any dents, cracks, or holes. If the tank is not completely sealed, it isn’t safe to dive with. Give the scuba or mini scuba tank a good shake. If you hear any water inside of it, get rid of it immediately.
Next, place the tank into a cold water bath. This will keep the air inside of it from suddenly heating up and expanding, which could lead to disaster. A cold bath will also allow you to pinpoint any cracks or holes that may be present. You can do so by taking notice of any air bubbles that suddenly appear from the side of the mini scuba tank.
Your next step should be to set up the compressor. This needs to be set in the correct fashion according to the needs of each individual tank that you are testing. Make sure to check all of the various meters and gauges. Also check that your automatic shut-off valve is functioning in the correct manner.
Next, you need to attach the yoke to your mini scuba tank. This is the part of the compressor that hooks up directly to the valve on your tank. You need to be sure that the connection points are free from debris. This will keep you from breathing in bad quality air while you are diving with this tank.
Your final step will be to fill up the tank itself. Turn on the compressor and let it fill the tank with air. Check the gauges to make sure that the auto shut-off valve is working. If you spot any malfunctions, quickly turn off the compressor and discard this particular tank.