The Basic Parts of a Scuba BCD

As we know, scuba diving comprises of many different pieces of scuba gear and equipment. Each serves its fundamental purpose in the sport. If you are ready to invest in a new Buoyancy control device (BCD) then there are a few things that you should look into before you do just that.

Knowing how a BCD works is one of the primary things you should know before investing.  But seconding is, every part of a scuba BCD serves a function, do you know what all their functions are? If you don’t, this is another thing you should learn to help make your BCD diving an even better experience for you.

As a diver, knowing buoyancy control system components / bcd parts, where they are and how to use them is essential knowledge, as it is with all parts of scuba gear. The BCD is what gives you balance underwater and at the surface, so handling them properly also means better BCD diving.

Components of a Scuba BCD

Below we have put together a simple overview of the different basic BCD parts of a scuba BCD. This will help you when choosing the best device for your choice of bcd diving.

If you already know your Buoyancy Control System components, it’s always a good idea to scroll down for quick memory exercise on all the different functions. Remember, different types of BC scuba may have additional features, below we have tried to cover the basics of Buoyancy Control System components that can be found on most.

1. Air Bladder

The most important aspect of a scuba BCD is the air bladder. The air bladder is like a sack that holds air. How much air is inside the air bladder influences how buoyant you are. In other words, whether you float up or sink further down depends on how much air is inside the bladder. Learn how to master your buoyancy here.

Increasing the air inside your bladder creates a greater upward force so you rise up or float. Decreasing the air inside your bladder increases the downward force which makes you sink down. The precise spot of the air bladder depends on the type of device. The air bladders are usually located around the waist of the diver or on their back.

2. Power Inflator and Manual Inflator

You increase the amount of air inside the air bladder using the inflator. Most devices have two inflators; a power inflator and a manual inflator.

A power inflator pushes air from the pressurized air tank into the air bladder with a simple press the button.

A manual inflator requires you to blow air into the bladder using the mouthpiece so it is generally only used as a backup.

3. Deflator

The deflator releases air from the air bladder, also with the press of a button. This is what you use when you want to sink further underwater.

4. Dump Valves

The dump valves are an alternative to the deflator, this also lets air out of the bladder. The dump valves are usually fitted with a string that you pull to release the air.

5. Pressure Release Valve

There is yet another valve on a scuba BCD; the pressure release valve. The pressure release valve is a safety precaution. You don’t control the pressure release valve yourself. It automatically releases air when it registers that your air bladder is overinflated.

6. Weigh Pockets

Not all scuba BCD have weight pockets. The ones that do are said to have a weight integrated system. Weight pockets are just what the name suggests; pockets inside for carrying weights.

This is an alternative for weight belts.

Weight pockets allow divers to quickly remove the weight in case they need to rise up in an emergency. It is faster to remove weights from a pocket than it is to remove a weight belt.

7. Straps and Cumberbund

A BCD is designed like a vest with straps over the shoulders and around the waist. The strap around the waist is called a cumberbund strap. The straps are there to create a tight and comfortable fit. Most straps have buckles, clasps or velcro that are adjustable.

8. Back Plate

The backplate is the sturdy piece of plastic or lightweight metal worn on the back of the diver. This gives the equipment structure but also creates a barrier between the dive tank and the diver.

In most types, the Backplate is where the pressurized air tank is attached to. There are straps, belts, and buckles on the Backplate that attach to the air tank.

9. Extra Pockets

Many models have additional pockets along with the straps or waistband. These are for storing diving gear like a dive knife etc.

A BCD designed for professional divers likely has more pockets than for example a travel model. This is to cater to the needs of each individual diver.

10. Rings

Some designs also have rings or have rings instead of pockets. Like the additional pockets, these are for storing parts of scuba gear during the dive. When you want to bring dive gear with you and you only have rings then you will have to secure the gear with straps.

Removing dive gear from rings takes longer than opening a pocket so it is better to use the rings for scuba parts you don’t have to handle with your hands. For example, attach a dive light to a shoulder height ring for clear vision but place your dive knife in a pocket so it is easier to pull out.

Summary of the Basic Parts of a Scuba BCD

These ten scuba diving parts and scuba gear names are all the basic Buoyancy Control System components. They are the essentials for a safe dive so familiarize yourself with each function and where they are placed on your device. Of course, more advanced dive BCD may have additional parts to them. I hope that you have found this short guide better than any scuba gear diagram and that it has explained all the parts and uses of  Buoyancy Control System components for you to understand.