Arthur Kornberg

An article about the Aqua-Lung, a pioneering diving apparatus

Aqua-Lung

The Aqua-Lung is a type of scuba diving equipment that allows a diver to breathe underwater. It was the first open-circuit, self-contained underwater breathing apparatus (SCUBA) to achieve worldwide popularity and commercial success. The Aqua-Lung was invented in 1943 by Jacques-Yves Cousteau and Émile Gagnan.

History

The development of the Aqua-Lung was a significant milestone in the history of diving. Prior to its invention, divers were limited to using cumbersome and restrictive diving suits connected to surface air supplies. The Aqua-Lung revolutionized underwater exploration by providing divers with greater freedom of movement and the ability to explore deeper waters for extended periods.

Jacques-Yves Cousteau, a French naval officer and explorer, collaborated with Émile Gagnan, an engineer, to create a device that would allow divers to breathe underwater without being tethered to the surface. Their invention utilized a demand regulator, which supplied air to the diver only when they inhaled, conserving the air supply and allowing for longer dives.

Design and Functionality

The Aqua-Lung consists of several key components:

• Regulator: The regulator is the heart of the Aqua-Lung system. It reduces the high pressure of the air in the tank to a breathable pressure and delivers it to the diver on demand. The Aqualung Legend regulator is an example of a modern regulator design.

• Air Tank: The air tank, or cylinder, stores compressed air. It is typically made of steel or aluminum and is equipped with a valve to control the flow of air. The Druckluftflasche Tauchflasche DIN Ventil is an example of a diving cylinder with a DIN valve.

• Fins: Fins are worn on the feet to aid in swimming and maneuvering underwater. They provide propulsion and help divers move efficiently through the water. The Aqualung fins are a popular choice among divers.

Impact on Diving

The introduction of the Aqua-Lung had a profound impact on both recreational and professional diving. It opened up new possibilities for underwater exploration, scientific research, and military operations. The ability to dive independently and for longer periods allowed for the discovery of new marine species, shipwrecks, and underwater landscapes.

The Aqua-Lung also played a crucial role in the development of underwater photography and filmmaking, enabling filmmakers like Cousteau to capture the beauty and mystery of the underwater world and share it with a global audience.

Related pages

• Jacques-Yves Cousteau
• Scuba diving
• Émile Gagnan
• Underwater photography

Gallery

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  Aqualung fins

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  Aqualung Legend regulator

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  Diving cylinder with DIN valve

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