Barakuda Delphin II by Drager #3126
Delphin II by Drager #3126
Category:
Single-Hose Automatics
Manufacturer:
Dräger
Country of Origin:
Germany
Year of Manufacture:
ca. 1953+
Product Overview
Model: Dräger Delphin
The Dräger Delphin, the first German-made regulator for recreational divers, was a revolutionary single-stage regulator developed in Lübeck. Its unique design features a “pendulum regulator” system, utilizing a single coiled hose for both inhalation and exhalation, setting it apart from traditional single- or two-hose designs. Affordable, simple, and reliable, it played a critical role in introducing recreational diving to post-war Germany.
Historical Context
In the early 1950s, Hans-Joachim Bergann and Dr. Kurt Ristau, founders of Barakuda Wassersport GmbH, collaborated with Dräger to create an affordable diving apparatus for amateur use. The Delphin series, including Delphin I, II, and III, were among the first commercially successful regulators aimed at recreational divers.
- Delphin I (1953): An oxygen circulator designed as a precursor to compressed air diving.
- Delphin II (1953): First recreational compressed air apparatus, available with 4L or 5L cylinders.
- Delphin III (1955): An advanced model with dual cylinders and reserve activation, designed for dives up to 25m.
Design and Operation
The Delphin regulator features a pendulum breathing system, meaning both inhalation and exhalation occur through a single hose. This design eliminates the need for non-return valves but introduces challenges such as potential CO2 buildup.
Key Design Elements:
- A single-stage unbalanced diaphragm valve regulates air flow.
- The exhalation valve, located in the rear part of the regulator body, incorporates a flat mica disc and pressure spring for effective sealing.
- The pendulum hose design simplifies construction but allows minor rebreathing of exhaled air.
Technical Specifications
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Pressure Reducing Valve | Unbalanced, with airflow-triggered opening. |
| Control Type | Diaphragm-controlled. |
| Breathing Hose Length | 480mm. |
| Exhalation Valve | Rear-mounted; mica disc with pressure spring. |
| Material | Metal body; durable construction. |
| Cylinder Options | 4L (Ø115mm), 5L (Ø140mm); dual 4L (Ø115mm) for Delphin III. |
| Weights | 6.9kg (4L), 9.8kg (5L), 900g (regulator body). |
| Operating Pressure | 20 MPa. |
| Connection | DIN cylinder valve connection. |
| Max Diving Depth | 25m. |
| Mouthpiece Options | Metal, replaceable; with or without eyelet. |
Notable Features and Benefits
- Cost-Effective Design:
A simplified single-stage system reduced manufacturing costs, making it more accessible to amateur divers during Germany’s economic recovery. - Lightweight and Compact:
The Delphin II, weighing only 6.9kg with a filled 4L cylinder, was specifically marketed for female divers. - Pioneering Pendulum Breathing:
Unique single-hose system supported both inhalation and exhalation, offering a novel alternative to traditional designs. - Interchangeable Mouthpiece:
Optional metal mouthpieces with replaceable rubber inserts added user flexibility. - Durability:
Built from high-quality metal components, the regulator could withstand frequent use and challenging conditions.
Challenges and Limitations
- CO2 Retention:
Without non-return valves, exhaled air mixed with fresh air, potentially increasing CO2 levels and affecting dive quality. - Water Accumulation:
Small amounts of water could leak into the regulator, particularly during inverted swimming positions. - Lack of Pressure Gauge:
Divers relied on increased breathing resistance as a cue to surface, which could be risky without proper monitoring. - Shallow Diving Depths:
Early recreational diving equipment, combined with limited exposure protection, restricted dives to short durations and shallow depths.
Cultural and Historical Impact
The Dräger Delphin was widely used from 1953 to 1966 and became a symbol of recreational diving in Germany. Its simplicity and affordability allowed many to experience diving for the first time. Collectors highly value the Delphin today, and it holds an important place in diving history.
Testimonials and Observations
Many early German divers fondly recall the Delphin as their introduction to the underwater world. Despite its limitations, it offered an accessible entry point into recreational diving. At historical diving equipment exhibitions, the Delphin often garners attention as an iconic artifact.
Legacy Models
The Delphin inspired subsequent Dräger designs, including the PA61/I and Monomat, which featured more advanced two-stage systems. However, these later models retained the affordability and practicality that made the Delphin successful.
Pricing and Availability
The complete Delphin II system originally cost 250 German marks, a significant sum during the 1950s. Its production spanned 13 years, reflecting its popularity among recreational divers despite its challenges.
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