In this article we will delve into Scuba Force SF2 in the world of rebreathers, exploring its features, advantages and differences from other rebreathers, especially JJ CCR, which we looked at in the previous article, which introduces technical diving instructor Valters Preimanis.
Table of Contents
What is Scuba Force SF2?
The Scuba Force SF2 is an electronic, closed-cycle rebreather (CCR) that stands out for its unique design and features. It is available in both back and side mount versions and can be configured in a variety of ways to suit the diver's individual needs and diving style.
SF2 structure and functions
SF2 consists of several main parts:
- Carbon fiber body: Lightweight and durable housing that protects the rebreather's internal components.
- Contour lip: A simple, accordion-type contour lip located at the bottom of the rebreather.
- Scrubber: Contains an absorbent that removes carbon dioxide from exhaled air. SF2 uses an axial scrubber with a 3-hour operating time.
- Balloons: SF2 uses two cylinders – one with diluent (usually air or nitrox) and one with oxygen. The cylinders have modular valves for easy access.
- Regulators: Two regulators for diluent and oxygen supply. The regulators have pressure relief valves and are connected to manual connection valves.
- Manual connection valves: Two manual connection valves – one for diluent and one for oxygen. The valves have isolators that allow them to be disconnected from the system.
- Electronics: The SF2 uses Shearwater electronics, which are popular and reliable. The rebreather has one primary set of electronics and one backup monitor.
- Head: Contains oxygen sensors and a solenoid that controls the addition of oxygen. SF2 injects oxygen into the exhaled air stream.
- Loop: Durable snorkel with mouthpiece and snorkel weights. The snorkel has a DSV (Dive Surface Valve) but no BOV (Bailout Valve).
Differences from JJ CCR
SF2 differs from JJ CCR in several areas:
- Contour lip: The SF2 uses a single accordion-type contour lip located at the bottom of the rebreather, while the JJ CCR uses two separate contour lips located at the back.
- Oxygen injection: SF2 injects oxygen into the exhaled air stream while JJ CCR injects oxygen after the scrubber.
- Electronics: The SF2 has one primary electronics set and one backup monitor, while the JJ CCR has two independent electronics sets.
- Manual connection valves: SF2 manual connection valves have isolators that allow them to be disconnected from the system, while JJ CCR manual connection valves do not have isolators.
- Loop: The SF2 loop has DSV but no BOV, while the JJ CCR loop has both DSV and BOV.
Advantages and disadvantages
Advantages:
- Lightweight and durable: The carbon fiber body makes the SF2 lightweight and durable.
- Comfortable breathing: The simple contoured lip ensures comfortable breathing.
- Reliable electronics: Shearwater electronics are popular and reliable.
- Configuration options: The SF2 can be configured in a variety of ways to suit the diver's individual needs.
- Availability: The SF2 is a relatively affordable rebreather.
Disadvantages:
- Limited range of scrubbers: The SF2 is only available with a standard axial scrubber.
- No BOV: The SF2 loop does not have a BOV, which may be a disadvantage for some divers.
Conclusions
The Scuba Force SF2 is a unique diving rebreather that offers several advantages, including a lightweight and durable construction, comfortable breathing, and reliable electronics. It is an excellent solution for divers looking for a rebreather with extensive configuration options and an affordable price.
