Elastomer lines show the way

Diving at night can be uncomfortable and hazardous for even the most experienced diver

Problem: . Equally hazardous is diving in wrecks or caves. In both cases, it is very important to go the right way, especially when it comes to be time to go back. Solution: KDBC has devised a family of elastomeric lines which can be made to glow in the dark, and are designed for use under water of in other hazardous environments. In each case, according to managing director John King, the line is made of transparent PVC/polyurethane, and incorporates two copper conductors coated with an electroluminescent material and wound together. The light is a gentle, blue/green, easy to see under water. Applications: FireSnake is the illuminated night dive line, 6.5mm in diameter, weighted at one end, with re-usable Velcro cable grips for attachment to a standard dive shot line. It is available in 25m and 50m lengths. The 50m length is said to be ideal for large dive boats, and can be powered by the boat's internal power system or two 6V batteries within the drum. The 25m version is battery powered only. FireSub has been developed to mark the way back out of wrecks and caves. Supplied in 50m lengths, it has been tested and rated to a depth of 50m, and comes with a small stainless steel anchor attachment for the seabed. The cable light on both products pulses when battery life is low, and there is a visual warning from the condition monitors on both units. Usable working time between charges is 6 hours continuous. FireWorm is designed for way guidance on land. Tests undertaken by a fire brigade have proven the visibility of the product in smoke filled rooms, and the user has told the company that it offers a feeling of comfort in these conditions. Directional arrows are printed onto the cable, for additional guidance. Another version, FireMoth, is a portable helipad. TS KDBC Developments Email to KDBC Developments