How much will a BC self inflate in checked luggage?

[dmoore19]

Coming from Denver (5280') to sea level it is certainly necessary to make sure your storage boxes are unlatched, they are tough to open when you take them to sea level. Not so much when you come home.

I have never had any problems with my BC expanding enough to make any difference. But then I haven't ever put a sandwich in with my slightly damp dive gear.

 

[Remy B.]

The complete plane is pressurized the same, it is basically a tank with wings.

 

[jcaplins]

If you're really worried about it, unscrew the inflation hose from the BC.

 

[armywife(ret.)]

According to Air Suisse [h=1]Different Air Pressure in the Cabin[/h]As a flight climbs after takeoff, the air pressure in the cabin decreases. As a result, the cabin air expands by about 30%. When the flight descends to land, the volume of the air contracts again. These changes will not normally cause any problems, as long as the gases involved – such as the air in your lungs – can move about freely. They can, however, cause discomfort or even pain if the gas is enclosed and the different pressures thus cannot be equalised.

 

[Steve_C]

Technically the volume of air in the plane is a constant since the plane is a basically a rigid object (although it is flexible). As the plane rises some of that air is allowed to leave the plane to reduce the inside/outside pressure differential. An expandable enclosed air space (bcd, plastic bag) will increase its air volume by up to 30% the exact ammount determined by how much resistance the container can exert.

 

[highdesert]

Just wondered. One time I had a deflated football in a carry on bag and it inflated itself and squashed my sandwich. That was in the cabin so I figure the unpressurized cargo hold must be worse.

Hint: Do not pack a sandwich in your BC.

 

[divad]

One time I had a deflated football in a carry on bag and it inflated itself and squashed my sandwich.

Damn. I hate when that happens.

 

[Steve_C]

Mmmm. Perhaps this explains the mile high club?

 

[nimoh]

Mmmm. Perhaps this explains the mile high club?

are you referring to the 30% expansion?

 

[Max Speed]

Ok. 30% is not a big deal. I thought the cargo area was open to ambient.