This is the latest version of the new 45 minute 4500psi SCBA being developed the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) The Directorate for Science and Technology (S&T Directorate) and the IAFF.
The ultra low profile SCBA module is shown with a cut away to show the cells wrapped with carbon.
The Directorate for Science and Technology (S&T Directorate) is the primary research and development arm of the Department of Homeland Security.The Mission and Objectives of The S&T Directorate, in partnership with the private sector, national laboratories, universities, and other government agencies (domestic and foreign), helps push the innovation envelope and drive development and the use of high technology in support of homeland security.
I saw this on a show on the Discovery Channel. These guys were trying to develop a new style low profile SCBA. That was a year ago or so and I've never seen another thing about it until now. It looks pretty good! I can't wait to learn more about it. I wonder how it compares to the SCBA's we're using now.
I'm a dept. Health and Safety Officer, as well as a certified SCBA Technician. Very familiar with the subject.
This whole new concept is going to take YEARS to implement into the Fire Service in my opinion. They aren't developing a new SCBA, they are inventing a new storage cylinder. Somehow this part of the equation seems to be left out of the articles.
As such, once the "cylinder" is developed, and given approval by the approval authorities, CGA, etc. Then each separate manucacture of SCBA will have to develop a method of attaching their individual pressure regulation systems, (pressure reduce & regulator, facepiec etc.) to the new storage "Cylinder". Judging from the looks of the new "cylinder" this is going to be a task to change cylinders quickly. It's a great concept, however it has a lot of hurdles to clear prior to actually making it to the field.