CRESSI Aquawing Plus Cuba Diving Jacket Instruction Manual

: June 16, 2024
: CRESSI

A QU A WING &
A QU A WING PLUS
Instruction Manual

Congratulations on your purchase of a CRESSI product. You have selected an excellent product. Its design is the result of continuous research and development and it has been carefully constructed in compliance with CRESSI quality standard, thus ensuring pleasant and absolutely safe diving for a long time.

INTRODUCTION

BCDs are of utmost importance for underwater diving activities due to the fact that they make dives with diving regulators more comfortable, more practical and safer. In fact, they can be used to transport cylinders and to control the position, when diving and on the surface, through the inlet or release of air into/out of the cell. In this way, the diver’s specific weight will vary, making him/her lighter and more dynamic. Its function accounts for the abbreviation “BCD”, i.e. Buoyancy Control Device, the name that is given to these jackets.

GENERAL WARNINGS

WARNING!
FAILURE TO COMPLY WITH THE PRECAUTIONS LISTED BELOW COULD CAUSE SERIOUS DAMAGE OR EVEN DEATH.
In order to properly use the diving equipment described in this manual, you must be properly trained (theory and practice), which can only be achieved by obtaining a diver certification from a recognised certification agency. The use of this device by people without a certification is highly dangerous and may cause serious injuries or even death. It is also essential to have fully read and understood this manual.
WARNING!
THIS MANUAL DOES NOT REPLACE THE TRAINING FORESEEN BY THE SUITABLE DIVING COURSES GIVEN BY RECOGNISED SCHOOLS IN ANY WAY.

CE CERTIFICATION

Products with the CE marking must adhere to specific conditions in order to be placed on the market, as well as mandatory Personal Protective Equipment health and safety requirements. The marking is therefore only found on legal, safe and high-quality products, which are required to comply with these regulations.
As Personal Protective Equipment, CRESSI BCDs are compliant with the provisions of Regulation (EU) 2016/425 and with the national standards that implement the harmonised standard EN 1809:2014+A1:2016 (and all previous editions).
The EU declaration of conformity for this PPE can be consulted on our website: www.cressi.com in the “DOWNLOADS” area.
The appropriate marking can be found on the product. As prescribed by the CE standards, CRESSI BCDs are certified for use at a maximum depth of 50 metres.
WARNING!
THE BC IS NOT A LIFE VEST AND ON THE SURFACE DOES NOT GUARANTEE IT WILL KEEP THE HEAD OUT OF THE WATER.
THE BC IS NOT A BREATHING SYSTEM. NEVER INHALE THE GAS IN THE BUOYANCY BAG, BECAUSE THIS COULD CAUSE SERIOUS PHYSICAL HARM.
THE BC MUST NEVER BE USED TO LIFT THINGS OR PEOPLE TO CARRY THEM TO THE SURFACE, BECAUSE THIS COULD CAUSE SERIOUS PHYSICAL HARM.

FEATURES

In order to meet the varied needs of divers, Cressi BCDs have different features depending on the various models offered in the catalogue. We will explain each of such features below so that they can be properly used.

AIR CELL

The air cell is the watertight part of a BCD that is inflated and deflated in order to vary the diver’s position.
A harness, or part of it, is added to the air cell so that it can be worn and the cylinder can be positioned on it. There are different types of cells according to their shape, the type of containing cell and the ascending buoyancy that they are able to exert.
STANDARD AIR CELL
The Standard air cell is the most traditional and comfortable one. Its shape is similar to a gilet; therefore, the air contained in it is distributed both at the back and to the sides and front of the diver. Its main feature is that it wraps the diver and makes him/her keep in vertical position.
BACK AIR CELL
These types of BCDs are characterised by an air cell located in the rear part of the diver so as to release the front part and make the BCD lighter and less voluminous. In addition, when it is inflated, it does not tighten the body, while it is kept independent from the straps, thus giving you a sensation of complete freedom of movement.
WARNING!
IN THE BCDS WITH BACK AIR CELL, WHILE BEING ON THE SURFACE, THE AIR MASS TENDS TO POSITION THE DIVER HORIZONTALLY WITH HIS/HER DOWN. IN CASE OF LOSS OF CONSCIOUSNESS, THE HEAD REMAINS IMMERSED. THEREFORE, THEY ARE TO BE USED BY EXPERT DIVERS WHO HAVE TAKEN SPECIALISATION COURSES.

BACKPLATE

The backplate of a BCD is the rear part that enables a correct assembly among the cylinder, the harness and the air cell, so between the BCD and the diver. It is a very important part because it bears the entire weight of the diving regulator (fig. 11-12).
DOUBLE STRAP RIGID BACKPLATE
The Cressi rigid backplate is made from a lightweight aluminium alloy. It is set apart by its ability to securely hold the tank using two straps. It features various slots for harness adjustments.
SECURING THE CYLINDER WITH THE RIGID BACKPLATE.
The Cressi rigid backplate has two straps at the rear to fix the tank. These straps play a very important role, as they support the entire weight of the tank. They must therefore be tightened carefully using the special locking buckles.
The latter are already correctly assembled when they leave the factory (fig. 12), but it is still important to learn how to do it correctly. To do so, see the figure below, from illustration 1 to illustration 5, which explains the process step by step.
Once the buckle is positioned as shown, proceed as follows to install the tank: Release the strap from the velcro and loosen it as shown in illustration 6.
Position the tank by inserting it from the bottom, with the outlet valves facing the BCD. Remove the strap from the first slot of the buckle (illustration 7).
Open the buckle by rotating it until it clicks, then tighten the strap so that it holds the tank firmly (fig. 8). Partially close the buckle and reinsert the end of the strap into the first slot (illustration 9). Close the buckle completely and secure the strap with the velcro (illustration 10). At this point, the tank is held correctly (fig. 13-14).
WARNING!
ALWAYS WET THE STRAP BEFORE USING IT TO FASTEN THE CYLINDER. THIS IS CRUCIAL FOR THE DIVER’S SAFETY- IF THE STRAP IS DRY, IT COULD STRETCH WHEN SUBMERSED AND SO THE CYLINDER MAY SLIP OFF.
Once the cylinder has been attached, keep the upper side of the backplate from 5 to 10 cm below the valves (fig. 14), so that the diver’s head does not bump against the regulator.

COMPATIBLE CYLINDERS

All diving cylinders with 10/12/15/18 Litre capacity or with 171 to 216 mm diameters are compatible.

INTEGRATED WEIGHT POCKETS

The Aquawing + model is equipped with a system that allows you to insert the weights directly into special pockets. Thanks to this solution, the diver is not required to wear all the weights in the waist belt, allowing for a smoother and more gradual release in an emergency.
WARNING!
FOR SAFETY REASONS, IT IS RECOMMENDED TO KEEP THE WEIGHT BELT AT THE WAIST WITH A MINIMUM AMOUNT OF WEIGHT IN ORDER TO MAKE THE DIVER’S POSITION MANAGEABLE EVEN IN THOSE SITUATIONS IN WHICH THE BCD WEIGHT POCKETS HAVE BEEN COMPLETELY RELEASED SO AS TO AVOID DANGEROUS UNCONTROLLED ASCENTS.
INTEGRATED WEIGHT POCKETS
This system is very simple, consisting of two fixed pockets located next to the backplate. Inside the pocket, there is a special weight pouch with a velcro fastening and a handle. To release the weight, simply open the quick- release buckle that fastens the pocket with two fingers (fig. 15-16-17) and take the pouch by the handle if you want to keep the pouch (fig. 18-19-20); otherwise, the weight will fall away by gravity. Obviously, if you want to release the weight by gravity, you will need to be in a vertical position with your head towards the surface, since it is the force of gravity that will free you from the weight. The maximum amount of weight that can be inserted is 3 kg per pocket.

REAR POUCHES (CYLINDERS)

Each pouch can hold 2.5 kg (max. 5 in total).
For more information, see figure 56 on page 28.

AVAILABLE ACCESSORIES

Two type of accessories are available that can be assembled on both the
Aquawing and Aquawing+ models of vest:

Integrated ballast system. Two pockets, one left and one right, complete with weight pockets, to the side of the backpack. See the “Integrated ballast system” description in the previous chapter.
D-ring system. Two D-ring base plates (one right, one left) to the side of the backpack.

For correct assembly, please refer to the instructions available for download from cressi.com in the dedicated section for support/operating manuals).

HARNESS ADJUSTMENTS

The Aquawing and Aquawing + are one-size annular BCDs designed to adapt to all body types (male and female) using the new patented Modular Adjustment System (MAS): in fact, you can simply pull the single 50 mm strap that wraps around the shoulders and waist to quickly adjust it to your size.
Proceed as follows to put on the BCD (tighten the harness): using both hands, grasp the ends of the abdominal strap (fig. 21) and pull it upwards and outwards (about 45 degrees) from the body (fig. 22). Then close the two quick- release buckles on the abdomen and the crotch (fig. 23) Proceed as follows to remove the BCD (loosen the harness): open the crotch and abdominal buckles and make sure that the two ends of the abdominal strap are free; grab the strap on the shoulder straps just above the waist (fig. 24) and move it outwards and upwards from the waist (fig. 25-26).

D-RING ADJUSTMENT

To change the position of the D-ring on the shoulder strap, proceed as shown in the following figures (fig. 27-28-29-30-31-32-33-34-35-36-37-38-39-40)

QUICK-RELEASE ABDOMINAL BUCKLE ADJUSTMENT

To adjust the position of the buckle, proceed as shown in the following figures (fig. 41-42-43-44-45-46)

SMB POCKET (SURFACE MARKER BUOY)

Use the special pocket, located under the backplate cover, to hold the surface marker buoy (fig. 47).

CONTROL UNIT

The control unit is the heart of each BCD, linked to the inflation and deflation functions of the pneumatic bladder. It consists of the By-Pass, the Corrugated Hose and the Dump Valve (fig. 53).
BY-PASS: The By-Pass is the terminal that houses all the buttons and the inflation and deflation mechanisms (fig. 51); it must always be within reach, as it controls all the BCD’s vital operations. The low-pressure hose from the 1st stage is connected to the By-Pass by way of a quick coupling. This allows the By-Pass valve to blow air into the tank. This valve is designed to operate with a relative pressure of 1 to 15 bar, but we recommend using it with a relative pressure of 8 to 12 bar.

WARNING! The low-pressure hose must be screwed to the first stage of the regulator by way of the appropriate LP or MP (LOW/MEDIUM PRESSURE) outlet with 3/8 inch 24 UNF or 1/2 inch 20 UNF thread using an adapter. The other outlets of the regulator are HP (HIGH PRESSURE) and have a female 7/16 inch 20 UNF thread. NEVER connect the BCD’s low-pressure hose to the HP (HIGH PRESSURE) outlet, even with the help of reducers. This represents a serious risk to personal safety.
**WARNING! We recommend replacing the medium-pressure hose in the following cases:
– When there is air leaking from the rubber part or the joints with the metal parts.
– When there are anomalies in terms of shape when pressurised and at rest. The hose must always be perfectly cylindrical along its entire length.
– If the surface has been altered due to abrasions, friction or small cuts.
– If it has been subjected to traction that goes beyond normal use, such as lifting the self-contained breathing apparatus or becoming caught during sudden movements.
– When it is subjected to crushing or significant impacts, even if there is no obvious damage. The damage may be internal.
– When the connection thread with the regulator is damaged.
To connect the hose to the By-Pass, grip the knurled bushing at the end of the quick coupling and pull it back. At the same time, fully insert the female coupling of the hose into the By-Pass cylinder. Release the bushing and make sure it is properly engaged by pulling the hose gently. To disconnect, pull back the bushing and remove the hose from the By-Pass (fig. 49-50). WARNING! Only use the original Cressi hoses supplied. If you need to replace them, we recommend using Cressi hoses.
SYLVANIA SLTDVD1024-B 10.---icon7 CORRUGATED HOSE: The Corrugated Hose is the cylindrical rubber element that acts as an air duct, a guide for the cable that operates the dump valve, and a housing for the hose (fig. 52).
** DUMP VALVE: Finally, the quick dump valve is the plastic end part that connects to the pneumatic bladder in order to empty it of air (fig. 54).

CONTROL UNIT FUNCTIONS:

As laid out above, the control unit allows you to control a wide range of functions. They are as follows:

– Inflation using button A (fig. 51). Press the button to let in air.
– Inflation by mouth: Place your mouth over mouthpiece B (fig. 51). Blow in a small amount of air to eliminate any residual water from the duct.
Continue blowing while fully pressing button C. As soon as button C is pressed, the air will start entering the bladder. To stop, release the button. Repeat if necessary.
– Deflation by way of quick dump valve D, which can be operated by pulling the corrugated hose downwards (fig. 52). The diver must be in a vertical position.
– Traditional deflation: with the body in a vertical position, raise the corrugated hose towards the surface and press button C (fig. 53).

FLAT CONTROL UNIT

The quick dump valve has a considerably smaller footprint and lower weight.
It is not equipped with a pressure relief valve (fig. 54).

VALVES

To allow the air to escape from the bladder, each Cressi BCD has a control unit with two valves, as laid out above. The Aquawing and Aquawing + models are equipped with an additional quick dump valve and pressure relief valve located on the inside in the lower left. The diver can therefore enjoy complete safety should they encounter emergency circumstances during a dive. This type of valve is operated manually by pulling a knob and must be easily accessible to allow the diver to empty the pneumatic bladder in most positions. Furthermore, as mentioned above, it is also a pressure relief valve, i.e. a valve that releases the air from the bladder when the pressure is excessive.
LOWER LEFT INTERNAL VALVE:
It is located in the lower left internal area, and the knob that activates it is located immediately under the valve itself near the edge of the bladder (fig. 55). It is used to release air when the diver is upside down or in a horizontal position and, if necessary, at the end of the dive, to drain any water that has entered the bladder. WARNING! When storing weight in these rear pouches, it cannot be released in an emergency situation, and must be supplemented by a main weight system. It must also have a low enough weight that the diver establishes positive buoyancy when they release the main weight (fig. 56).

PUTTING THE BCD ON:

Using both hands, grasp the ends of the abdominal strap and pull it upwards and outwards (about 45 degrees) from the body. Then close the two quick release buckles on the abdomen and the crotch (see the previous chapter, entitled “Harness Adjustments”). To support the heavy tank, we recommend placing it on a raised surface with respect to the ground in order to perform the manoeuvre as comfortably as possible. We do not recommend putting the BCD on in the water.

EMERGENCY RELEASE:

If you need to get out of the BCD quickly, simply loosen the harness as follows: open the crotch and abdominal buckles and make sure that the two ends of the abdominal strap are free; grab the strap on the shoulder straps just above the waist and move it outwards and upwards from the waist (see the previous chapter, entitled “Harness Adjustments”).

PRE-DIVE CHECKS:

– Check that the low-pressure hose is correctly engaged.
– Check that the valve fixing nuts are well tightened.
– Make sure the tank is held perfectly in place.
– Inflate the BCD and check the efficiency of the pneumatic bladder.
– Try out all the functions of the Control Unit several times.
– Check the operation of the pressure relief and quick dump valves.

DIVING:

Every dive must begin with a preparatory stop on the surface, during which you must inflate the BCD. This action facilitates floating and swimming and makes the preliminary operations safer. Once you are ready, you will need to deflate fully in order to carry out the descent. During the descent, we recommend inflating the bladder a little at a time so that your buoyancy is not excessively negative and your speed does not increase excessively. When you reach your maximum depth or your first stop, inflate the bladder until a neutral position is obtained. This position makes swimming very easy. Be very careful not to overdo it, and ideally keep yourself slightly negative. A deep inhale or an upward kick with your flippers could be enough to change your buoyancy from neutral to positive and, if distracted, to put you in an extremely dangerous situation. It could even trigger a very risky and rapid uncontrolled ascent. To avoid this situation, you need to be able to quickly recognise such a buoyancy change and to immediately deflate the BCD using the valves. Once your run time is up, you must ascend, taking care to release the air on a partial basis, proportional to your ascent altitude. For every diver, ASCENDING must be inextricably linked to DEFLATING the BCD (and the dry suit). The deflation must be adjusted to ensure that it is never affected by the positive thrust that the BCD gives to your body. Once on the surface, reinflate the BCD.
As previously mentioned in the “Control Unit” paragraph, inflation manoeuvres are carried out using the By-Pass button or by mouth using the mouthpiece and button. We recommend practising both methods extensively, even if the first proves quicker and easier. The position of the diver is not relevant to the effects of the manoeuvre. Deflation manoeuvres are carried out by way of the control unit, either by pulling it downwards or by lifting the end towards the surface and pressing the appropriate button, and by way of the quick dump valves located in the rear part, by pulling the appropriate knobs. During deflation operations, the position of the diver is very relevant to the effects of the manoeuvre. They must be vertical with respect to the surface to deflate using the control unit or the upper rear valve, while they must have their head down and more precisely the lower part of the BCD upwards to deflate using the lower rear valve. When deflating, care must be taken to close the relevant elements as soon as the air has finished flowing out. Otherwise, the water will begin to enter the bladder, as it is no longer blocked by the air, altering the buoyancy capacity.
WARNING! In BCD models with a rear bladder, when on the surface, the air mass tends to position the diver horizontally upside down, and the head may remain submerged in case of loss of consciousness. Their use is therefore intended for expert divers with an in-depth understanding of their features.
WARNINGS:
As mentioned in the previous paragraph, incorrect control of the BCD can lead to very dangerous, rapid and uncontrolled ascents, which are almost always responsible for serious or fatal decompression accidents.
In order to prevent these situations, we always recommend gradually deflating the BCD during ascents to maintain a slightly negative buoyancy. If you are in a vertical position, this operation must be carried out using the upper valves; more unusually, if your body is positioned upside down, you must use the lower valve. As a general rule, you should always use the valve closest to the surface to deflate.

USE AND DURATION LIMITS

– This BCD must not be used beyond the first 50 metres of depth.
– This BCD must only be used with SCUBA diving breathing apparatus bearing the CE mark.
– This BC can be used in water temperatures ranging from -2 °C to + 40 °C.
It can withstand external (ambient) temperatures from –20 °C to + 50 °C.
Diving in extreme conditions, with water temperatures below 10 °C, is risky for the human body, and you should therefore have taken and passed specific courses before diving in such conditions.
– A buoyancy control device is not a life jacket and may not keep your head out of water.
– If the buoyancy control device described in this manual is used with Nitrox mixtures containing up to 40% O2, it will require more frequent and thorough maintenance than with breathable air.
– No alterations, even minor ones, can be made to this BCD. Alterations are prohibited for the purposes of personal health and safety.
– For the purposes of personal health and safety, use is prohibited in polluted water, water with a high level of suspended solids, and in any liquid with different chemical/physical characteristics to water.
– Use of the BCD in chlorinated waters will cause the materials to deteriorate. It is therefore not recommended for use in water with a high concentration of chlorine.

MAINTENANCE

To maintain your BCD properly, be sure to follow these instructions:

– Always carry it in a protective bag.
– Avoid contact with sharp or pointed objects, or objects that may cause abrasions.
– Avoid prolonged exposure to sunlight.
– At the end of each dive in the sea, lake or pool, always rinse the interior and exterior with fresh water. For the interior, fill the bladder about 1/3 full through the mouthpiece of the control unit (keeping the drain button pressed), and then partially inflate and shake it. Empty it by opening the lower quick dump valve.
– Every 4 or 5 dives, clean and lubricate the quick coupling for the hose and the By-Pass coupling with silicone grease.
– Replace the hose seals annually at an authorised Cressi centre.
– We recommend getting your BCD inspected annually at an authorised Cressi centre. In case of intense use (diving centres, rental use, professional use, or other), we recommend having the BCD serviced every three/six months at an authorised Cressi centre.
– If you need to replace a hose, the new one must be the same type as the hose supplied at the time of purchase. If you have any doubts about its characteristics, contact the manufacturer or an authorised retailer.

STORAGE

– We recommend storing your BCD in a perfectly dry and partially inflated state and in a cool and dry place. Ideally, it should be hanging.
– The storage location must be removed from sources of heat or direct sunlight.
– Avoid locations where the BCD could come into contact with chemical products or corrosive agents that could affect its safety features.
– Avoid placing other objects on top of it.
– Leave the control unit in an extended position. The corrugated hose must not be bent or crushed.

SIZES

For sizes, see the Fit column of the final table.

NITROX

Do not use this BCD with Nitrox mixtures containing more than 40% oxygen.
The use of mixtures with higher percentages of oxygen, or that contain helium or other gases (Trimix), could cause corrosion, deterioration or premature ageing of the BCD or its components, causing them to break. This could result in a loss of buoyancy control or the BCD losing its seal, leading to serious physical harm. Mixtures with a high oxygen content can also increase the risk of ignition and explosion. In order to use Nitrox or Trimix mixtures, you must obtain, in addition to the diving certification, specific certification, issued by an internationally recognised educational organisation.

MARKING

A Buoyancy Control Device for diving is a personal protective device that must meet the European regulations on personal health and safety.
The CE marking found on the product signifies its compliance with the essential health and safety requirements laid out in Annex II of Regulation (EU) 2016/425;
The EU declaration of conformity for this PPE can be consulted on our website: www.cressi.com in the “DOWNLOADS” area.
EN 1809:2014+A1:2016 European Standard regarding the regulation of buoyancy control devices for the purposes of personal protection. Products bearing this marking must meet the requirements of this standard.
The labels affixed to the product (under the backplate cover) (fig. 57) display the following data:
first label:

the BCD serial number

second label:
WARNING!
THIS IS NOT A LIFE JACKET AND MAY NOT KEEP YOUR HEAD OUT OF WATER
– The use of this BCD requires a specific course with a qualified instructor.
– In an emergency, the ability to float on your back on the surface is not guaranteed for all users and in all conditions.
– Before use, check the condition of the BCD, its proper functioning, and that there are no holes or other damage.
– See the instructions provided in the Manual.
– Do not inhale the gas inside the bladder.
– Do not remove from the BCD.
Model: Production year:
Table indicating the buoyancy values (expressed in Newtons) for each BCD size.
Pictogram indicating the max. tank capacity in litres and the maximum diameter.

CRESSI EUROPEAN GUARANTEE

In accordance with the 1999/44 EC directive, Cressi guarantees its products against non-conformity and defects affecting proper functioning. To offer better service to its customers and consumers and to highlight the efficiency and quality of its production processes, it has decided to extend the terms of the aforementioned guarantee as follows: the BCDs are guaranteed for two (2) years from the date of purchase (for rental or educational use: 12 months for proper functioning and 24 months for non-conformity). Exceptions: consumable parts; damage due to scratches, punctures, abrasions, or chemicals (including chlorine); damage due to sun exposure; damage due to neglect, impacts, or normal wear and tear.

CRESSI JACKETS FEATURES

MODEL: AQUAWING AQUAWING +

▶| TYPE OF AIR CELL – MATERIAL| BACK CELL NYLON 210 D CORDURA 1000 D| BACK CELL NYLON 210 D CORDURA 1000 D
▶| TYPE OF BACKPLATE/ CYLINDER FIXING| RIGIDO / DOPPIA FASCIA| RIGIDO / DOPPIA FASCIA
▶| COMPATIBLE CYLINDERS / LITRES – DIAMETER (mm)| MONO 10/12/15/18/ – 171/203/216| MONO 10/12/15/18/ – 171/203/216
▶| INTEGRATED WEIGHT POCKETS / MAX KG POCKET| NO| FIXED GRAVITY POCKET – 3+3 KG
▶| ABDOMINAL ADJUSTMENT| FIBBIA| FIBBIA
▶| STERNAL ADJUSTMENT| NO| NO
▶| SHOULDER STRAP ADJUSTMENT| MAS (Modular Adjustment System)| MAS (Modular Adjustment System)
▶| N. QUICK DUMP AND OVER-PRESSURE VALVES – DISCHARGE KNOB| 1
– Posteriormente zona inferiore sinistra| 1
– Posteriormente zona inferiore sinistra
▶| TOTAL DUMP VALVES| 3| 3
▶| NO. CHARGE VALVES| 2| 2
▶| TYPE OF CONTROL UNIT| FLAT| FLAT
▶| NO. OF POCKETS| NO| NO
▶| NO. OF BACK POCKETS| 2| 2
▶| NO. OF “D” RINGS| 2| 4
▶| THRUST IN NEWTONS| XS| S| M| L| XL| XXL| XS| S| M| L| XL| XXL
120| 120
▶| BCD WEIGHT –| XS| S| M| L| XL| XXL| XS| S| M| L| XL| XXL
| TOTAL BALLAST THAT CAN BE USED (kg)| 2.9 5| 3.75 11
▶| WEARABILITY:
CHEST (cm) – WAIST (cm) – WEIGHT (kg)| XS| S| M| L| XL| XXL| XS| S| M| L| XL| XXL
80/130 75/130 55/125| 80/130 75/130 55/125