
13 CSAV MILITARY LIFE PRESERVER TECHNICAL MANUAL
DEFLATION METHODS
Throughout the course of a dive, it will be necessary to release air from the
CSAV using one of the methods described below. Each method uses a valve
that is in a different location. The method you choose at any time may depend
on whether you are making your initial descent feetrst, headrst, or maintai-
ning neutral buoyancy underwater. Always remember to utilize the valve that
is at the highest point on the bladder, depending on your position.
Deation via the Oral Inator
Air can be vented through the inator by holding the inator above your head
and depressing the oral inator button. This method can be used for making
an initial feet-rst descent, but is not very useful while you are in a facedown
swimming position.
Deation via the Rapid Exhaust Valve
Overpressure Relief Valve
WARNING: Whenever you ascend, whether intentionally or accidentally, you must
simultaneously vent air from the vest as needed to maintain buoyancy control. If air is
allowed to expand inside the vest unchecked, you may experience a rapid, uncontrolled
ascent, which could lead to serious injury or death if not immediately corrected. To re-
gain buoyancy control during an uncontrolled ascent, you must continuously exhaust air
from the vest until you have stopped ascending.
NOTE: Depressing the oral inator while the vest is empty may cause
water to enter the air bladder.
Inside the inator’s corrugated hose is a cable that attaches the inator to the
rapid exhaust valve at the top of the airway assembly. You can vent air from
the vest by gently tugging straight down on the inator. The rapid exhaust
valve provides an effective and convenient way to vent air from the vest while
in either an upright or facedown swimming position.
CAUTION: The proper function of the overpressure relief valve is vital in order to pre-
vent damage to the CSAV bladder. Unauthorized service or tampering may render this
valve inoperable, and could cause the bladder to leak or rupture. This type of damage is
not repairable, and is not covered under the terms and conditions of Aqua Lung’s
one year warranty.
The overpressure relief valve (OPRV) is located inside of the inator. This valve
relieves air automatically when the internal pressure of the bladder exceeds
ambient, in order to prevent overpressurization.