Wet bell

Wet bell is a type of diving bell that is used as a type of underwater diving equipment. Unlike a dry bell, which is sealed against the ingress of water, a wet bell is open at the bottom, allowing direct contact with the water it is submerged in.

Design and Operation

A wet bell consists of a platform which can be lowered from a vessel, with a bell-shaped hood over the top. The hood traps a pocket of air which can be breathed by divers, while the open bottom allows divers to swim in and out. The air pocket is maintained by adding air from the surface, usually through a hose. The platform typically has seating for divers and may also carry equipment.

Uses

Wet bells are used in commercial diving, where they provide a base for divers working at depth, and a means of transporting them to the surface. They are also used in scientific research, and in some forms of recreational diving.

Safety and Training

The use of a wet bell requires specialized training, as divers must learn to manage the air supply and to enter and exit the bell safely. The Professional Association of Diving Instructors (PADI) and other organizations offer courses in wet bell diving.

See Also

• Diving bell
• Commercial diving
• Underwater diving