Procedure A: Cleaning And Lubricating - Aqua Lung APEKS TX 50 Technical Manual

Table of Contents

Aqua Lung and Apeks First Stages and Nitrox

When it comes to issues of nitrox safety and compatibility, the concerns lie primarily with the first stage as it is subjected to high inlet

pressures. High inlet pressures lead to adiabatic compression or heating of the gas. The Aqua Lung or Apeks regulator product

described in this manual, when properly cleaned and assembled, is authorized for use with enriched air nitrox (EAN) that does not

exceed 40% (EAN 40). It is authorized because it has undergone adiabatic compression testing and the authorized service kit

components and lubricants are compatible in elevated oxygen environments. During cleaning, a mild detergent must be used to remove

condensed hydrocarbons (compressor oils) from the inside passageways of the first stage. For the first stage to remain EAN40

compatible, only use hyper filtered compressed gas (hydrocarbons < 0.1 mg/m3). Ordinary compressed breathing air (Grade E) usually

does not meet this criterion. Once ordinary breathing air is used, the first stage is no longer EAN40 compatible until it is cleaned and

serviced again.

Although regulator second stage components are not exposed to high pressure EAN, Aqua Lung recommends that the same cleaning

procedures be followed for the complete regulator. This prevents the possibility of cross contamination and guarantees the cleanliness

of the entire regulator.

Cleaning Brass and Stainless Steel Parts

1. Preclean in warm, soapy water* using a nylon bristle tooth brush.

2. Thoroughly clean parts in an ultrasonic cleaner filled with soapy water. If there are stubborn deposits, household white distilled

vinegar (acetic acid) in an ultrasonic cleaner will work well. DO NOT place plastic, rubber, silicone or anodized aluminum parts

in vinegar.

3. Remove parts from the ultrasonic cleaner and rinse with fresh water. If tap water is extremely "hard," place the parts in a bath

of distilled water to prevent any mineral residue. Agitate lightly, and allow to soak for 5-10 minutes. Remove and blow dry

with low pressure (25 psi) filtered air, and inspect closely to ensure proper cleaning and like-new condition.

Cleaning Anodized Aluminum, Plastic & Rubber Parts

Anodized aluminum parts and parts made of plastic or rubber, such as box bottoms, box tops, dust caps, etc., may be soaked and

cleaned in a solution of warm water mixed with mild dish soap. Use only a soft nylon toothbrush to scrub away any deposits. Rinse in

fresh water and thoroughly blow dry, using low pressure filtered air.

CAUTION:

Do not place plastic and rubber parts in acid solutions.

Doing so may alter the physical properties of the component,

causing it to prematurely degrade and/or break.

Cleaning Hoses

1. Hose fittings: Ultrasonically clean with soapy water*; vinegar OK on tough corrosion

2. Run soapy water through hose if needed

3. Thoroughly rinse with fresh water

4. Blow out hose before installing

Lubrication and Dressing

If planning to use enriched air nitrox through a first stage, wear powderless latex or nitrile gloves when handling and lubricating o-rings.

Keeping internal parts free from skin oils and other contaminates is important when running enriched air nitrox through a first stage.

All o-rings should be lubricated with Christo-Lube

excess by running the o-ring between thumb and forefinger. Avoid applying excessive amounts of Christo-Lube® grease, as this will

attract particulate matter that may cause damage to the o-ring.

*Soapy water is defined as "household" grade liquid dishwashing detergent diluted in warm water.