APNDX-2 © MMXXI Kirby Morgan Dive Systems, Inc. All rights reserved. Document # 211027002
Lubrication/Cleanliness Maintenance and Inspection Procedures
divers became very popular, and as use increased,
so did the number of combustion incidents during
the mixing and handling of the breathing mix-
tures. These combustion incidents brought atten-
tion to the dangers and inherent risks associated
with oxygen and oxygen enriched gas mixtures.
Kirby Morgan cannot dictate or override regu-
lations or recommendations set forth by indus-
try standards or governing bodies pertaining to
enriched gas use. However, it is the opinion of
Kirby Morgan that breathing gas mixtures up to
50% oxygen by volume should not pose a signi-
cant increased risk of re or combustion in Kirby
Morgan helmet and mask low-pressure com-
ponents and does not warrant the need for the
stringent specialized oxygen clean post-sampling
and particulate analysis normally accomplished
for components used in high pressure oxygen
valves, regulators, and piping systems. The deci-
sion for using 50% has been primarily based on a
long history of operational eld use.
As long as Kirby Morgan helmets and masks are
cleaned and maintained in accordance with the
maintenance manual, the equipment should not
pose a signicant increased risk of a re or igni-
tion originating in the helmet or mask low-pres-
sure (<250 p.s.i.g. /<17.2 bar or less) components
when used with enriched gases of up to 50% oxy-
gen. However, CAUTION should be exercised
any time enriched gases are handled or used.
In general, helmets and masks used primarily
for mixed gas use are subject to far less oil and
particulate contamination than those used for air
diving. For this reason, helmets and masks com-
monly used with both air and enriched breath-
ing gases should be cleaned and maintained with
greater care and vigilance. It is important that
all internal gas-transporting components, i.e.,
side block, bent tube, and demand regulator as-
semblies remain clean and free of hydrocarbons,
dirt, and particulates. Whenever the equipment
is depressurized, all exposed ports or ttings
should be plugged/capped to help maintain for-
eign material exclusion.
Gas train components should be cleaned accord-
ing to the procedures outlined in the operations
manual at least annually and/or whenever con-
tamination is suspected or found. Helmet and
mask interior and exterior surfaces should be
cleaned at least daily at the completion of dai-
ly diving operations. Helmets and masks used
in waters contaminated with oils and other pe-
troleum or chemical contaminants may require
cleaning after each dive.
Helmet and mask components requiring lubrica-
tion should be lubricated sparingly with lubri-
cants approved for oxygen use such as Christo-
Lube®or equivalent oxygen compatible lubricant.
KMDSI highly recommends using Christo-Lube®,
and uses Christo-Lube® during the assembly of
all KMDSI gas train components.
BWARNING
Do not use lubricants of any kind on
the diaphragm or exhaust valves.
Use of lubricants can attract and hold
debris that could interfere with the
proper operation of the regulator.
Regardless of the approved lubricant used, never
mix different kinds of lubricants. Persons mix-
ing handling and working with breathing gases
should be properly trained in all aspects of safe
gas handling.
During annual overhauls, all O-rings and
soft goods, i.e., valve seats and washers
should be replaced. KMDSI offers kits
that have all the necessary parts.
The neck dam rubber need not be
replaced if the inspection reveals no
damage or significant wear and the
rubber components are not dried out.
The oral nasal mask and oral nasal
valve requires replacement, only
if inspection reveals damage,
distortion, or signs of damage.
All threaded fasteners and parts require
careful cleaning and inspection as well
as the mating parts. Replace any and
all threaded parts or components that
show signs of wear or damage.
KMDSI highly recommends a certied KMDSI
repair technician make all repairs and that only
genuine KMDSI repair and replacement parts be
used. Owners of KMDSI products that elect to do
their own repairs and inspections should only do
so if they possess the knowledge and experience.
All inspections, maintenance and repairs should
be completed using the appropriate KMDSI Op-
erations and Maintenance Manual.
