What is an "Apeks Free-Flow Control Device"?

[GSmith]

I see this item listed in there 2003 catalogue, but there is no description? It looks like it is installed inline with hose to second stage. It is not part a regulator as they show it.

 

[Hallmac]

Yes it goes inline. Think of it as the water shut off on your sink. It is a simple ball valve that allows you to manually shut off air flow to a frozen second stage.

Hallmac

 

[RiverRat]

I see this item listed in there 2003 catalogue, but there is no description? It looks like it is installed inline with hose to second stage. It is not part a regulator as they show it.

I've actually thought about purchasing one but I'd like to hear back from some folks that have them or have any info on them. Sounds like a pretty good idea especially if you're somewhat deep and low on gas and your buddy is nowhere to be found. Of course, it could also be considered another failure point?

 

[Hallmac]

I've actually thought about purchasing one but I'd like to hear back from some folks that have them or have any info on them. Sounds like a pretty good idea especially if you're somewhat deep and low on gas and your buddy is nowhere to be found. Of course, it could also be considered another failure point?

If you're somewhat deep and low on gas and your buddy is nowhere to be found. You have alot more problems than needing a shut off valve.

Hallmac

 

[TechBlue]

Primarily it was used on rebreathers on the bailout reg, with a limited gas supply the last thing you want is a freeflowing reg. Now they are also being used on stage regs you leave the valve open and just shut the valve off, it's a sliding shutoff not a ball valve. If you dive a pony setup it is definitely a good idea as you have to keep the cylinder valve turned on and if you do get a freeflow you're SOL. There are variations on the Apeks AFC which you may want to consider their barrel is sandblasted and can lead to leaking and o-ring failure.

DBT

 

[RiverRat]

If you're somewhat deep and low on gas and your buddy is nowhere to be found. You have alot more problems than needing a shut off valve.

Hallmac

Hallmac,
I'm thinking worse case scenario, such as on a dive trip with a "buddy" you've never dove with before. You're near the mooring line @ 60 fsw with 700 psi ready to end your dive and your new buddy decides to wander off. Your reg starts to freeflow. Might be nice to know you could shutdown your primary reg and have enough gas for a safe, slow ascent. I've never encountered a full blown freeflow at depth but I'm sure it won't take long to drain the tank.

 

[Scubakevdm]

Here's the Freeflow control device I use. It goes in-line after the second stage. I got mine as a gift, but Leisure Pro probably sells them dirt cheap.

 

[RiverRat]

Here's the Freeflow control device I use. It goes in-line after the second stage. I got mine as a gift, but Leisure Pro probably sells them dirt cheap.

Nice! Does it come in different colors?

 

[TechBlue]

Did you only get one?

 

[gbrandon]

Did you only get one?

HAHAHAHAHAH... that was funny. Alot funnier than the pic.