A Buoyancy Control Device (BCD) is an essential part of dive equipment because it controls the three states of buoyancy while you dive: positive while at the surface, negative as you descend, and neutral while you explore the underwater realm.
Controlling the three states of buoyancy is important, specially positive and neutral.
Positive buoyancy will help you float effortlessly while at the surface, and neutral buoyancy will help you move freely without crushing or damaging the delicate marine life.
What types of BCDs are there available?
There are three styles of BCD: front mounted, back mounted and jacket style, being this last one the most commonly used nowadays.
Features to consider when purchasing a BCD
A good BCD must be capable to hold enough air to provide you with ample buoyancy at the surface. Also, it must have a large enough inflation / deflation hose that you can operate easily. Other important features include an over pressure release valve to prevent it from bursting when over inflated, and most important, it must include at least one emergency deflation valve to quickly release all the air in case of emergency.
How to maintain a BCD
BCD´s, as well as any other part of dive gear should be rinsed with fresh water after each use. Still, there are other two additional maintenance considerations: First, you should also rinse the inside of the bcd, and second, you should always store your BCD partially inflated.
As with every piece of your dive gear, BCD´s should be serviced at least once every year (or more often if you use it frequently) by a qualified technician.
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