Regulators

Question
1.)What is the difference between the two types of regulator connectors (Standard 200 Bar and DIN 300 Bar)?

2.)Which regulators work best with the Oceanreef Full-face Mask?

Answer
Hi Bill

Thanks for the question about regulators and the full-face mask.

First, the "Bar" designation is just another way of measuring pressure.  One Bar is equivalent to about 14.7 Pounds Per Square Inch (PSI).  The Yoke Valve is the standard in the United States and generally has a lower pressure rating because it's design is just not as strong as the DIN valve.  The Yoke Valve has a tendency to blow O-rings due to it's design.  That's the reason many technical and cave divers prefer the DIN valve.  The O-ring in a DIN arrangement is actually in the regulator fitting and not in the valve.  This O-ring is larger and is much better protected than it is in a Yoke Valve.  The DIN valve was invented in Germany and is the standard in Europe.  Some DIN valves can be converted to Yoke by the addition of an adaptor in the oriface of the DIN but some of the valves have an angled shape and cannot be converted.  These angled valves have no place for the yoke screw to catch on the back of the valve.  Your regulator also must be refitted if you want to use it for a valve other than what it was originally fitted for.  These converters are available from the dealer which sells the regulators.

Your second question deals with which regulator will work best with the Oceanreef Full-Face Mask.  I'm not directly familiar with the Oceanreef but I'll give you some general information which will probably apply to this mask as well.  The regulator actually mounts in the front of the mask and the mouthpiece is not used.  When you inhale, the vacuum in the mask causes the regulator to supply air.  In order for this to work efficiently, the second stage should be adjustable for breathing effort.  Many regulators have this feature so brand isn't that important.  You'll know if it's adjustable by the knob on the side of the second stage which can be turned to make the regulator breathe easier.  You'll want to set this valve so the regulator  breathes very easily.  That will require less vacuum in the mask to start the air flow.  You'll actually do this with the mask in place so you can experiment with different settings.  I'd suggest checking with Oceanreef to see if they have any recommendations as well.

Bill, I hope this answers your questions.  If you require more information, please write back.

Happy Diving!!!

Mike Giles
Mike's Dive Center
mikescuba.com