MARITIME – DIVE & UNDERWATER OPERATION CALCULATOR
Air Consumption Depth
A precise tool.
What is the Air Consumption Depth & How does it work?
Surface Air Consumption (SAC) is the rate at which a diver uses breathing gas at the surface, expressed in litres per minute. It provides a baseline that can be adjusted for the increased ambient pressure encountered at depth. As a diver descends, the surrounding water pressure rises roughly 1 atmosphere (atm) for every 10 metres of seawater. This pressure increase compresses the breathing gas, causing the diver to inhale a greater volume of gas per minute than at the surface. By multiplying the SAC rate by the ambient pressure and the planned dive time, we obtain the total air consumption at the chosen depth, allowing divers to plan gas reserves accurately.
C = text{SAC} times P times t
C = air consumption at depth (L), text{SAC} = surface air consumption (L/min), P = ambient pressure (atm), t = dive time (min)
Parameters
Result
—
Frequently Asked Questions
How does water pressure affect air consumption?
As you descend, water pressure increases by about 1 atmosphere every 10 meters, compressing the breathing gas and increasing your air consumption.
What is surface air consumption (SAC)?
Surface Air Consumption is the rate at which a diver uses breathing gas at the surface, measured in litres per minute.
How do I calculate air consumption depth?
Multiply your SAC by the depth in atmospheres to estimate your air consumption at that depth.
What is the relationship between depth and breathing gas volume?
For every 10 meters of depth, the water pressure increases by about 1 atmosphere, requiring you to inhale a greater volume of gas per minute.
How can I reduce my air consumption at depth?
Practice efficient breathing techniques, use a regulator with lower resistance, and plan your dive to minimize unnecessary depths or time underwater.
What is the formula for calculating air consumption depth?
Air Consumption Depth = Surface Air Consumption (SAC) × Depth in Atmospheres.
Why is it important to know my air consumption at depth?
Knowing your air consumption helps you plan dives safely, ensuring you have enough breathing gas for the planned duration and depth.
Results are for informational purposes only and do not constitute professional advice.