Switched from steel tanks to aluminum 80s for inland work

I used to run steel 72s on every job because that is what I learned on. Last summer I picked up two aluminum 80s for a bridge inspection in Baton Rouge and the difference in hauling them up ladders is huge. The 80s float more so I have to clip them off better, but the weight savings on my back means less fatigue by the end of a 10 hour shift. Has anyone else made that switch for harbor or river jobs, or do you stick with steel for the negative buoyancy?

2 comments

2 Comments

verar2121d agoMost Upvoted

Real quick though, aluminum 80s aren't actually more floaty than steel 72s in the way people think. They are positively buoyant when empty, sure, but a steel 72 is also positive when empty unless you're wearing a heavy steel backplate or something. The real trick is the weight distribution, not the float itself. You probably noticed less fatigue because the 80s are shorter and sit higher on your back, so the leverage is better. I've done dredge work with both, and I'll take the aluminum for ladder climbs every time, just gotta use a good hip D-ring and cinch that tank band tight so it doesn't shift on you.

sagep1921d ago

Ha, my buddy learned that the hard way when his tank slid sideways on a drift dive.