Semi-enclosed ball 18/122 cm with metal valve

General Description

The Tecline 18/122 cm SMB is a semi-closed surface marker buoy designed for recreational and technical divers who seek a balance between visibility, ease of use, and safety. Thanks to its semi-closed system, the gas inserted remains inside the buoy during ascent, preventing it from deflating once it reaches the surface.

Key Technical Features

Dimensions:

• Width: 18 cm.
• Length (Height): 122 cm.
• This proportion offers excellent vertical stability in water and sufficient buoyancy to keep the reel or spool line taut.

Semi-Closed System (Duckbill):

• Equipped with an internal "duckbill" valve positioned at the base. This allows air to enter but prevents accidental escape, ensuring the SMB remains inflated even if it lies flat on the water's surface.

OPR (Over Pressure Relief) Valve:

• Includes an integrated over-pressure relief valve. This is essential for automatically releasing excess air during ascent (caused by gas expansion according to Boyle's Law), preventing damage to the fabric or seams.
• Features an external cord for manual air release once the dive is finished.

Inflation Methods:

• Regulator: Can be inflated from the bottom by inserting the second stage or octopus into the bottom opening.
• Oral / BCD Hose: Often equipped with a metal or plastic connector that allows for oral inflation or inflation via the BCD/dry suit hose (depending on the specific valve model).

Materials and Visibility:

• Color: High-visibility orange (international standard for position signaling).
• Material: High-strength nylon, designed to resist wear and marine environmental conditions.

Included Accessories:

• Usually equipped with a stainless steel or durable plastic D-ring at the base for attaching the line.
• May include a bolt snap or an elastic fastening system to keep it compactly rolled when not in use.

Strengths

• Compactness: At 122 cm, it is easy to store in a BCD pocket or clipped to the backplate.
• Safety: The OPR valve protects the integrity of the SMB during deployments from great depths.
• Versatility: Ideal for both decompression stops and signaling one's position at the end of a dive in currents or rough seas.