Surface Air Consumption (SAC) is the rate at which a diver uses breathable air at the surface, expressed in litres per minute (L/min). It is measured during a calm breathing test and provides a baseline for estimating gas usage at depth.
When a diver descends, the ambient pressure increases roughly 1 atmosphere (atm) for every 10β―m of seawater. Because the gas is compressed, the same SAC rate consumes more gas proportionally to the ambient pressure: Effective consumption = SAC Γ (1β―+β―depth/10).
A scuba tankβs usable air is the product of its internal volume (V, in litres) and its pressure (P, in bar). By dividing this total air supply by the depthβadjusted consumption rate, we obtain the theoretical dive time before the tank is empty.
How does depth affect gas consumption in scuba diving?
What is Surface Air Consumption (SAC) in scuba diving?
How do I calculate my effective gas consumption at depth?
Can you explain how pressure affects air consumption in scuba diving?
What is the importance of knowing your SAC rate?
How do I measure my Surface Air Consumption (SAC) rate?
Can this calculator help me plan my dive duration?
Results are for informational purposes only and do not constitute professional advice.
