SCBA compressors are commonly spec’d to provide either CGA grade D or L air.
SCUBA typically requires Grade E.
All three are similar with identical requirements for CO and CO2
See for example.
CGA releases NEW 2011 CGA G-7.1 Standards « Safe Air Systems
The major difference is that Grade E limits total hydrocarbons, the others do not. As boulderjohn said, the physiological effects of breathing gas at 1 atmosphere are not the same as breathing at depth.
If your firehouse compressor provides air that qualifies as Grade E, enjoy. If D or L, you’ll need to decide how important hydrocarbon concentrations are to you. Any chance you can get to see their compressor’s air quality test results?
SCUBA typically requires Grade E.
All three are similar with identical requirements for CO and CO2
See for example.
CGA releases NEW 2011 CGA G-7.1 Standards « Safe Air Systems
The major difference is that Grade E limits total hydrocarbons, the others do not. As boulderjohn said, the physiological effects of breathing gas at 1 atmosphere are not the same as breathing at depth.
If your firehouse compressor provides air that qualifies as Grade E, enjoy. If D or L, you’ll need to decide how important hydrocarbon concentrations are to you. Any chance you can get to see their compressor’s air quality test results?