South Australian rebreather “ABYSS”
Dr. Errol J. Harding: Innovating Rebreather Technology with Rebreathers Australia
Years ago, Dr. Errol J. Harding announced exciting developments in his Abyss rebreather, showcasing his commitment to innovation and quality. Interestingly, another prominent rebreather builder in the same country, Kerry, has also significantly impacted the diving community.
Kerry is renowned for designing his own rebreathers and generously sharing his expertise with countless divers, guiding them toward achieving their diving objectives. He pioneered transforming Semi-Closed Rebreathers (SCR) into Closed-Circuit Rebreathers (CCR) by developing his own metering valves, advancing rebreather technology substantially.
Introducing Rebreathers Australia
These two visionaries have now joined forces to create a new collaborative venture, “Rebreathers Australia.” Their primary mission is to manufacture rebreather components for DIY enthusiasts and homebuilders. One of their initial projects involves offering the StingRay and Abyss CC rebreathers in kit form.
The StingRay CC Rebreather
The StingRay is a compact and versatile CC rebreather designed for sports diving. It can be customized with two-liter bottles, allowing builders to select their preferred gas supply system, whether it’s Kerry’s metering valve setup or the Kiss system. Prototypes unveiled at a recent dive show in Australia generated considerable excitement. There are even whispers that these kits may become available by the end of the year.
Specifications of the StingRay:
- Weight: Approximately 18-19 kilograms
- Case: Sturdy fiberglass
- Additional Features: Oxycheq 18-pound Wing and O-pack harness
- Current Status: Production of necessary hoses is underway (as of March 4, 2005)
A Promising Collaboration
This collaboration between Dr. Errol J. Harding and Kerry holds great promise for the rebreather community and represents a significant step forward in diving technology.