Nitrox...what advantages does it have over air?
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Arnaud
Contributor
scubasean
Contributor
I think the primary benefit is extended NDL's, or rather less Nitrogen in your system for a given dive profile.
On the flip side, it is higher cost, requires special equipment considerations, etc.
I recommend the cert...I just did mine also...More training is better...
On the flip side, it is higher cost, requires special equipment considerations, etc.
I recommend the cert...I just did mine also...More training is better...
Enriched air (nitrox) will offer some increased bottom times as mentioned. I tend to use nitrox for dives between 40-90 feet, as I dive with 112cuft tanks I can benefit from the extended NDL times nitrox offers. Some people, myself included, "feel" better, after a dive when using enriched air. Most newer regs can handle up to 40% 02, you need to check to be sure. The other possible expense would be the tanks as they need to be 02 clean and properly marked for nitrox use. If you dive with a computer, it must be already programed (intended) for nitrox use.
Arnaud
Contributor
Only if the LDS uses direct partial pressure fill.
I would not mark a non-O2 clean tank for 40% or less use. Might get in trouble if you need a regular air fill.
Dryglove
Contributor
You will be ok if your fill shop is using a grade E or higher air.
Laser
Guest
It really shows it's advantages when doing multiple dives in the 60-120 range or so. SI's can be shorter, therefore getting in more diving. Less N2 is a good thing.
My LDS does use the partial pressure fill method. I only use enriched air blends in my nitrox marked tanks. I keep one tank set aside for reg air fills, especially when diving out of town.
Nitrox reduces your nitrogen load, adding to safety at appropriate depths. The disadvantage is increased risk of oxygen toxicity at inappropriate depths.
The certification class teaches you how to tailor the mix to the depths you will be diving and to use Nitrox safely. It is also your first step to learning about mixed gas diving.
The benefits that people claim range from feeling better to longer bottom times and the benefit seems to be somewhat individual in nature.
I suggest taking the class and taking a few dives to see what benefits you get. If you don't find it worth the cost to use Nitrox regularly, you will still have learned a lot and be a safer diver for the extra knowledge.
The certification class teaches you how to tailor the mix to the depths you will be diving and to use Nitrox safely. It is also your first step to learning about mixed gas diving.
The benefits that people claim range from feeling better to longer bottom times and the benefit seems to be somewhat individual in nature.
I suggest taking the class and taking a few dives to see what benefits you get. If you don't find it worth the cost to use Nitrox regularly, you will still have learned a lot and be a safer diver for the extra knowledge.
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