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Hollis Explorer User Manual

Recreational rebreather
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  • Page 1 user Manual REV. 2 L I M I T...
  • Page 2 This is the operations manual for the HOLLIS EXPLORER This manual, specifications and features of the Explorer are proprietary and copyright Hollis Inc., 2012. This document cannot be copied or distributed without the prior agreement and authorization from Hollis Inc.
  • Page 3 SCUBA apparatus. It is designed as a EXPLORER DESIGN TEAM guide for the proper setup, operation, maintenance, and field service of the Hollis Explorer only. It does Bob Hollis NOT take the place of a recognized training agency...
  • Page 4 Hollis EXPLOR- ER Product Service Guide. The EXPLORER was designed for use with Nitrox (up to 40% O2). DO NOT use gas mixtures with a higher fraction of oxygen greater than 40% with your EXPLORER.
  • Page 5 You must not alter, add, remove, or re- shape any functional item of the Hollis Explorer. Additionally, NEVER substitute any part of the Hollis Explorer with third-party items which have not been tested and approved by Hollis for use with the Explorer.

  • Page 6: Table Of Contents

    TABLE OF CONTENTS SECTION 9 General Safety Statements & Warnings iii-v BAILOUT & GAS CONFIGURATION PART 1 SECTION 10 YOUR NEW EXPLORER DCP (DIVE CONTROL PARAMETER) SECTION 1 SECTION 11 REBREATHER LIFE SUPPORT SYSTEM RMS(RESOURCES MANAGEMENT SYSTEM) RULES SECTION 12...
  • Page 7 SECTION 3 EXPLORER SKILLS COMPLETED PART 6 COMPLETE DISASSEMBLY & REASSEMBLY SECTION 1 THE FULL DEAL PART 7 USER MAINTENANCE & AB- SORBENT STORAGE SECTION 1 SENSORS SECTION 2 SANITIZING SECTION 3 ABSORBENT SECTION 4 SERVICE SECTION 5 MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE PART 8 APPROVED PRODUCTS &...

  • Page 8: Part 1 Your New Explorer

    3. Do not modify the EXPLORER without the manufacturer’s written con- sent. 4. Do not use a full-face mask, Unless approved by Hollis for use with the EXPLORER 5. Always analyse your gas. 6. Never dive a unit you suspect is leaking and has not passed all the pre- dive tests.

  • Page 9: Batteries

    The unit MUST then be charged prior to diving again. The handset has its own battery that is charged from the EXPLORER Mod- ule automatically. The user should keep the batteries recharged and topped up to ensure there is always maximum capacity for any dive.
  • Page 10 ASSEMBLED UNIT...

  • Page 11: Cover Removed

    Cover Removed...

  • Page 12: Gas Flow

    GAS FLOW As the diver exhales gas flows through the hose (blue arrow) and over the right shoulder. It then enters the absorbent filter and flows across the Ox- ygen and CO sensors in the Sensor Module and through the inhale hose (red arrow) and back to the mouthpiece.

  • Page 13: Mechanical Features

    CYLINDER EXPLORER uses a 5L/40cuft cylinder with an inline valve. Dives over 18 m/60 ft requires that an additional bailout cylinder of a minimum capacity of 3 L/20 cuft be used in conjunction with the 5L/40 cu ft cylinder.
  • Page 14 In addition there is a master (high flow) over pressure release valve that is set to 40mb to help control ascents. BOV (BAILOUT VALVE) EXPLORER comes with a BOV. The BOV attaches to the on-board nitrox circuit. The BOV is designed as the primary bail out (providing a sufficient/ planned volume is carried).
  • Page 15 These displays give full alarm status at all times using a visual and a tactile alarm system. SENSORS The EXPLORER uses 3 oxygen sensors and one gaseous CO sensor. It also uses a wireless HP sensor. All sensors are automatically calibrated by the electronic control system.

  • Page 16: Out Of The Box

    The parts to assemble your EXPLORER include: 1. The Front Case 2. The Back Case 3. The Canister (pre-assembled in the Case Front) 4. The Sensor Module (Pre-assembled into the Canister) 5. The Life Support System (LSS) Module (Pre-assembled into the Canis ter) secured in the system case 6.
  • Page 17 DANGER: All sensors must be allowed to sit in an AIR atmo- sphere for at least twelve hours prior to use in the EXPLORER. The Sensors can be immediately assembled into the Sensor Module but this module should not be fully installed for at least 12 hours after unsealing the sensors packages.
  • Page 18 Green when the LSS Module if fully charged. A full charge takes ap- Fig. 2.6 proximately 10 hours. EXPLORER has 3 battery status displays with the charger connected: 1. Battery Charging (Empty) (Fig. 2.6) 2. Battery Charging (Fig. 2.7) 3. Battery Charged (Fig. 2.8) Fig.
  • Page 19 To view the charge status of your EXPLORER, do the following: 1. Remove the charger (if attached). 2. Do a long hold of any button on the handset and the Hollis splash screen (Fig. 2.9) will display. This screen will timeout after 3 seconds and the "Do Predive"...
  • Page 20 Fit the breathing hose alternate ends to the Canister. Ensure the white hose end goes to the white coded Canister port. Confirm the ADV LP feed hose is fitted correctly and tightened to a torque of 50-60 in-lbs/5.6-6.7 N-m (Fig. 2.14). Step 8.
  • Page 21 • Single use Pre-packed The Professionally pre-packed version can be filled with granular absor- bent by a qualified dive professional (see you Instructor or Hollis dealer for more information). The Single Use pre-packed version comes in a sealed bag and the filter CANNOT be taken apart or refilled.
  • Page 22 on the clear center. While pressing firmly, twist the lock ring to 3 O’clock with your fingers until fully closed as shown (Fig. 2.21). NOTE: The Case Back will not fit and lock properly if the end cap lock rings are not in the correct orientation. Step 10.

  • Page 23: Life Support System (Computer)

    PPO sensors that can ignore data from rogue sensors. The EXPLORER design is simple to use but this simplicity does not mean that the system is simple in terms of data processing or control analysis.
  • Page 24 THE HEADS UP DISPLAY The Heads Up Display (HUD) is an ergonomic addition for the diver, as it gives a simplified and quick to follow view of the status of the EXPLORER. The HUD as 3 main warning levels: • Flashing Red plus vibration alarm - warning is activated when a dive should be aborted on open circuit or not started.
  • Page 25 The primary method is via the STATUS screen. There is an additional set of STATUS screens in service mode, described in the section 6 of this chap- ter. The STATUS screen shows as soon as the EXPLORER is turned on (Fig. 3.1).  ...
  • Page 26 STAT will just display the STATUS screen and relevant resources as during a dive. To enable fault diagnosis put the EXPLORER into Service Mode. Having se- lected STAT with a long hold of both buttons from the Startup screen you will access two extra screens (Fig.
  • Page 27 During Pre-dive additional information will be displayed on each Pre-dive screen such as the PO and internal loop pressure (Fig. 3.5). Your Hollis dealer may need access to this information to help with any issues. Please see the separate EXPLORER Service Manual for details. STATUS SCREEN COLORS There are four color states of the STATUS screen.

  • Page 28: Automatic Turn On

    AUTOMATIC TURN ON FAILSAFE FEATURE Normal practice and training is for the user to turn the EXPLORER on by- hand and go through the pre-dive checks. The following failsafe additions are to reduce diver error, where the EXPLORER is turned off prior to breath- ing on the unit.
  • Page 29 Breathing the loop, in all circumstances where the unit is breathable and sensors operative, will cause a safe turn-on. DANGER: The additional safety features described in this section should NEVER be used as routine. The user should ALWAYS turn on the unit and pre-dive checks carried out as required in training and the operations manual.

  • Page 30: Display Symbols

    Display Symbols Most screen commands (soft buttons) are actually the written word (in English) but movement commands are expressed using icons.   Moves the cursor to the next field to the right to edit or   moves the STATUS display one window to the right. Moves the cursor to the next field to the left to edit or moves the  ...

  • Page 31: Screen Icons

    – yellow indicates a blue/green HUD state. In addition, a grey icon indicates a test not yet performed. WARNING. A red icon means a failure of the test/alarm which if ignored would make EXPLORER unsafe to dive. The icons are: Battery &...

  • Page 32: Dive Screens

    DIVE SCREENS Screen Description Dive Screen (when ascent rate bar is ½ full then rate is 30 ft/min 10 m/min Dive Time   Dive Screen with menu bar (accessed by a single push of any button)   Status Screen (accessed by a short double push of the right button)  ...

  • Page 33: Status Screens

    status screens The Status (STAT) screens show all key resources in a simple format. The screen is accessed from the main screen by a short double push of the right button, and then a short push of either the left or the right button moves around the screen.

  • Page 34: Main Menu

    MAIN MENU MAIN MENU SCREEN (FIG. 3.7) The EXPLORER has a simple menu system which is available while at the surface. To access the Main Menu short press any button. MENU NAVIGATION   Action Button Press Fig. 3.7 Short push both buttons...
  • Page 35 ER, the serial number of each connected element, and information that may be required by your service center. Software updates for the EXPLOR- ER are available from http://hollis.com/support.asp. Please check regu- larly for updates. Once a new update has been installed, this screen will  ...

  • Page 36: Setup Menu

    MAIN MENU SCREEN (FIG. 3.12) The EXPLORER has a simple menu system which is available while at the surface. To access the Main Menu short press any button. MENU NAVIGATION   Action Button Press Fig. 3.12 Short push both buttons...
  • Page 37 DEFAULT GAS (FIG. 3.14) Set this to your normal dive gas. During the Pre-dive if EXPLORER ana- lyzes a different gas, it will alarm and ask you to recheck the analysis. For further detail on proper use of this function see the following section "Bail- out and Gas Configuration".

  • Page 38: Bailout & Gas Configuration

    Bailout and Gas Configuration DEFAULT GAS SETTING The EXPLORER has the capability to analyze the dive gas attached to the system. If this gas differs significantly from what the EXPLORER expects (the programmed Default Gas), then a warning will be given during the pre- dive sequence.

  • Page 39: Dcp (Dive Control Parameter)

    DCP (Dive Control Parameter) DYNAMIC PO The EXPLORER is a dynamic PO controller. This means it can vary the that it maintains based on the value of certain resources. A higher DCP (Dive Control Parameter) value means less decompression (higher ) but more gas usage and a lower PO is the opposite.
  • Page 40 2. If the NDL is then less than 60 minutes the DCP will stay set to 95% to maximize the NDL. 3. If at any point on the ascent the NDL is in excess of 60 minutes then the DCP will reduce to save gas and maintain the NDL at 60 minutes. 4.

  • Page 41: Rms(Resources Management System)

    RMS (Resources Management System) The control of PPO is the prime function for EXPLORER in addition it monitors a range of dive resources. The unit is able to make advanced decisions based on available resources in order to modify the PPO provide for a better dive outcome.
  • Page 42 Oxygen Sensor Calibration The EXPLORER is able to perform accurate calibration of the Partial Pres- sure Oxygen (PPO ) sensors in ambient air. This has particular importance on the ease and accuracy of achieving calibrated sensors. The EXPLORER is able to measure atmospheric pressure during calibra- tion and make the appropriate calibration adjustments for the sensors, even at altitude.
  • Page 43 CO sensor calibration by opening the EXPLORER Module and removing it and the Sensor Module, place them together (Fig. x.x) and turn the unit on. Then go to the STATUS screen and view the PPO and CO .

  • Page 44: Sensor Calibration

    20.9% oxygen at 750mBar = 15.675 mbar partial pressure of oxygen The EXPLORER uses ambient air as the calibrating gas, because its composition is accurately known. This is in contrast to say a cylinder of compressed oxygen that can vary from supplier to supplier, as well as around the world, from at least 94% to 100%.
  • Page 45 The Oxygen sensors vary only slightly over time. Temperature, atmospheric pressure and moisture have far greater short-term effects on the readings. Calibrations carried out once a week should be more than sufficient, unless the EXPLORER has been transported to different climates or significantly different ambi- ent conditions.
  • Page 46 Sensor Module should be re- moved from the EXPLORER and sensors allowed to stabilize in ambient air. 6. If the EXPLORER has had a change in climate or significant ambient conditions, these are good reasons to check calibra- tion.
  • Page 47 OXYGEN SENSOR VOTING VOTING METHOD The EXPLORER has a method of automatically removing Oxygen sensor sensors from the PPO averaging and entering a fail-safe mode when it is not possible to resolve an accurate PPO reading. Rules: 1. If a single sensor is below 0.15 bar or above 3.00bar, then it will be removed from the averaging —...
  • Page 48 will be displayed. Diver Action: Ascend on the rebreather 7. If the average of all sensors is less than 0.17 or greater than 2.0 when diving then a BAILOUT alarm will display. NOTE: This alarm will supersede those in rules 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 and Diver Action: Open circuit Bailout to surface 8.

  • Page 49: Cdm (Canister Duration Meter)

    CDM (CANISTER DURATION METER) The EXPLORER Canister Duration Meter (CDM) is comprised of three main parts: 1. A patented, absorbent temperature profile duration meter. 2. An Oxygen Injection Meter (based on CE tested durations). 3. A gaseous CO sensor The readings from all of these devices together can be used to report a high confidence status regarding the state of the Absorbent Filter.
  • Page 50 CDM is not a substitute for good system maintenance and Pre- Dive checks. Always use your training and discipline to ensure the sub-systems in the EXPLORER are operating correctly. Critical components and potential failures are: • The filter seal around the Absorbent filter •...
  • Page 51 24 hours even if it has not been fully used through breathing. When installed and being unused, the EXPLORER should have its breathing loop closed so that external air does not accelerate the degradation of the filter. However, once open...
  • Page 52 Therefore, as previously stated, the filter should always be changed within 24 hours of opening and/or use. Partially used filters should be stored in the EXPLORER with a closed breathing loop. Although the algorithm that analyzes the thermistor curve is adequately accurate during diving, if the filter is not being breathed on, the thermistors curve will be abnormal.
  • Page 53 WARNING: The CO Absorbent Filter Alarm will activate when there is sufficient duration to allow an ascent to the surface with an additional (approximate) 10 minutes reserve remaining. At such time, the diver should ascend to the surface on closed circuit.
  • Page 54 CO could still bypass the filter. If this occurs, stop breathing on the EXPLORER. This will be indicated (and alarmed for) by the Gaseous CO sensor. Replace the absorbent and/or check filter packing and seating.
  • Page 55 CARBON DIOXIDE SENSING MODULE Premise: The EXPLORER comes with an option to fit a CO sensor. The user can elect to buy this from new or upgrade to the sensor later. The CO sensor gives many advantages as detailed below.
  • Page 56 50% of its recommended duration. Therefore, in order of priority, the EXPLORER is fitted with a gaseous CO sensor, a metabolism ‘click’ counter (providing an estimate of oxygen con-...
  • Page 57 Thus the alarm levels within the EXPLORER have been initially set as 5mB and 10mB. As the user moves into the 5 mB+ range, although no symptoms may occur, it is highly advis- able that the dive be terminated as soon as possible.
  • Page 58 The CO sensor is able to compensate for pressure and humidity environments as normally achieved in a diving rebreather system. The EXPLORER version is powered from the LSS Module rechargeable battery. The CO sensor requires occasional calibration. EXPLORER has a sophis- ticated logging system that minimizes the number of calibrations.
  • Page 59 CO levels until you can return to the surface and change the filter. In any event if a CO alarm is seen the EXPLORER will force an immediate action to return you to the surface. | 53...
  • Page 60 GASEOUS CO SENSOR SYSTEM CONSTRUCTION The CO sensor system comprises of a Sensor and a removable/change- able filter. The basic principle of the system is to use Infra Red technology to detect carbon dioxide (CO ) in the retreaters’ breathing loop. However certain contaminants and in particular moisture, will affect the sensors abili- ty to read accurately.
  • Page 61 The yellow water absorbing material (center of picture) is removable. The EXPLORER is supplied with spare absorbing material. Simply remove one and refit a new one (Fig 3.23). The absorbing material will become wet during a dive. The used absorbing Fig.
  • Page 62 CALIBRATION During the Pre-dive sequence you are prompted if you want to calibrate the CO sensor (Fig. 3.24). The ONLY source of calibration gas is fresh air. With the filter removed and the sensor in fresh air the CO reading should read 0.4mb +/- 0.1mb.
  • Page 63 NOTE: If moisture is present when this connection is mated, then contact corrosion may occur. This may give false read- ings on the CO sensor. It is vital this connection is kept clean. hollis approved contact cleaner or | 57...
  • Page 64 Inspect this connection regularly. MECHANICAL FITTING The sensor should be fitted into the EXPLORER Sensor Module. Check the O-rings around the filter carrier are not damaged. Ensure the O-rings are lightly greased.
  • Page 65 through the screens to see CO Scrolling through the screens to the CO display will now display the CO reading in Millibars in the central window (Fig. 3.27). CE TESTING OF CO SENSOR Gaseous CO sensor module: Tests conducted at ANSTI test systems. Fig.

  • Page 66: Display & Alarm Systems

    Display & Alarm Systems HUD, BUD, & COLOR SCREENS The EXPLORER can be routinely dived by using the HUD (Heads Up Display) as the main underwater human interface. This frees up the diver to concentrate on the dive at hand.
  • Page 67 (e.g., diving, not diving). ALARM CODES With the EXPLORER, a key task has been to process the fault levels and error conditions to indicate the status of the rebreather. Further, the LED states are configured for color blind as well as highly stressed divers.
  • Page 68 There are 3 main warning levels associated with the HUD, BUD, and on-screen displays. Alarm Code Meaning Correct Action Solid Green This code means there OK - Procede with dive are no detected prob- as planned. lems. Flashing Green & Blue Warning - It is activat- The correct response (HUD/BUD)

  • Page 69: Alarm Flow Diagrams

    Alarm flow diagrams The following sections contain flow diagrams to indicate which actions / HUD indication will be used separated into diving and surface cases. The following flow charts should be used in sequence, where an OK from the red HUD cases leads to blue/green HUD cases. Note the following decompression/tissue model ‘O/C Bail-Out’...
  • Page 70 IN WATER HUD/BUD ALARMS Red (OC Bailout) Alarms   64 |...
  • Page 71 Blue/Green Alarms   | 65...
  • Page 72 "Bad Cell" States Are As Follows: • Cell input timed-out • Cell input stale • Calibrated sensor input > 3.00 bar • Calibrated sensor input < 0.15 bar • Raw sensor input < 7 mV • Cell input excluded having failed calibration •...
  • Page 73 SURFACE HUD/BUD ALARMS Red (Do Not Dive) Alarms   | 67...
  • Page 74 "Bad Cell" States: • Cell input timed-out • Cell input stale • Calibrated sensor input > 3.00 bar • Calibrated sensor input < 0.15 bar • Raw sensor input < 7 mV • Cell input excluded having failed calibration • Calibrated cell input > 0.2 bar from the other two cells (only a single cell can be in this state) "Do Not Dive"...
  • Page 75 Blue/Green Alarms   | 69...
  • Page 76 Blue/Green ‘Do Not Dive’ alarm states are: High If 2 or 3 cells in state “OK” and average PPO ≥ 1.6 bar V. High Control If 2 or 3 cells in state “OK”, and provide complete, and PPO ≥ 0.70 bar V.
  • Page 77 None Usable Green System OK None. Stay on On-board, 3 loop EXPLORER sensor driven Bad sensor Usable Blue/ Y – Fail- STATUS screen action Stay on EX- loop Green safe mode panel will show AS- PLORER and CEND NOW.

  • Page 78: Gas Reserves

    Gas Reserves DYNAMIC RESERVE The EXPLORER monitors the high pressure (HP) contents of the on-board gas supplies. The EXPLORER includes two warning system for the HP contents. 1. Pressure below reserve level 2. Rate of use of gas is too high or too low indicating either a leak or that the HP cylinder valve is turned off and gas injection is being unsuccessfully attempted.

  • Page 79: Mod (Maximum Operating Depth)

    3. When a maximum PPO of 1.6 bar is reached The EXPLORER will not freeze the user out of operation if these depths are exceeded. However, the system and diver are operating beyond the normal recommended conditions and therefore these limits should never be routinely exceeded.
  • Page 80 WARNING: Decompression diving significantly increases the risk of decompression illness. Various alarms will be generated if elements of decompression are vio- lated. Please see the Deco States Table below and the EXPLORER flow charts for further detail. DECO STATES State...

  • Page 81: Internet Reprogramming

    Some updates will be available for a fee. Other updates will be free. To check if you’re EXPLORER has any available updates and to obtain the reprogramming software then please go to http://hollis.com/support.asp. DANGER: After new software is installed you MUST recalibrate the oxygen and CO sensors.

  • Page 82: Part 4 Getting Ready To Dive

    A weight of up to 2-3 kg/4.4-6.6lbs can be used. If the EXPLORER is allowed to move on the divers back, a change in breathing resistance may be noted. With the Explorer’s back mounted counterlungs it is important that the Explorer is as close to the diver’s back...
  • Page 83 OCTOPUS, BAILOUT, & CYLINDER CONFIGURATIONS While the exact gas requirements for any type of diving are a matter of per- sonal choice and predicted by specific level of EXPLORER certification and training agency, it is vital that a breathable open circuit bailout is carried at all times for all depths of the dive, of sufficient volume to allow a safe ascent to the surface with a stressed breathing rate.
  • Page 84 The following is offered as a guide when configuring the EXPLORER for a range of diving conditions. This must be used in conjunction with the recommendations from your Hollis approved training agency. Depth On-board Gas Off-board Gas Less than 18m/60ft...
  • Page 85 The ADV is designed to help maintain a breathable lung volume in conjunction with the LCV. The ADV on the Explorer is a simple tilt lever system that in the relaxed position (no gas applied) will remain open. It seals when gas is applied.
  • Page 86 This system was developed because in use no units are completely free from moisture, and ADV free flows, due to icing, regularly occur though there has not been an alarm for it. 80 |...

  • Page 87: Pre-Dive Setup

    Having assembled and tested the unit upon receipt, it is still critical that all pre-dive tests are conducted prior to diving. The EXPLORER is equipped with a set of pre-dive checks that are built into the electronics prompting the diver to test certain aspects of the unit prior to diving.
  • Page 88 15 minutes it will automatically turn off to save power (Fig. 4.7). To manually turn off EXPLORER then select the Menu option and do a long press of the left button - OFF (Fig. 4.8).
  • Page 89 This duration is also dependent on how much loop venting, mask clearing, BCD/drysuit inflation occurs. NOTE: Cylinder valves for use with the EXPLORER must be certified in accordance with EN12021 for use in Europe. | 83...
  • Page 90 CO injection rate of 1.6 l/min and a ventilation (breathing rate) of 40 l/min and a 1.5 kg/3.3 lbs absorbent load of a Hollis Approved absorbent (See Unit Specification), the unit will last 40 minutes at 40 m/130 ft as an extreme test (Ref EN14143: 2003).
  • Page 91 Tests conclude that depth (gas density), temperature, and CO generation all massively affect absorbent duration. The EXPLORER employs a highly efficient axial canister design which not only offers greatly extended dura- tions when compared to other designs employing a similar absorbent load, but it is less affected by the commonly experienced high loss of efficiency associated with increased depth.
  • Page 92 FILLING STEPS – PROPACK VERSION ONLY DANGER: DO NOT perform this action unless you are certified to do so. 1. Remove the Filter from the Canister. Inspect the quad ring for cleanli- ness/damage and clean/replace with a small amount of grease (Fig. 4.9). 2.
  • Page 93 To remove excess water, push the hose corrugations together (like using a concertina) to squeeze the water out. Disinfect the unit as per the ‘Explorer Rebreather Maintenance Chart’, PART 7 Section 4. RECHARGING Please see "Batteries"...
  • Page 94 CYLINDER FILLING All dives must start with a full cylinder. All gas must be analyzed prior to use. ABSORBENT CHANGING Absorbent must be changed in accordance with the section in the manual titled ‘The Absorbent Filter’. Drain any water from the BCD. Re-inflate and the operate dump valves and the inflator to confirm everything is OK.

  • Page 95: Completing Pre-Dive Checks

    COMPLETING PRE-DIVE CHECKS PURPOSE These tests are designed to: 1. Check that all functions of the EXPLORER have a high likelihood of oper- ating correctly 2. Detect assembly errors 3. Detect breathing loop errors 4.Advise the user of system measurements that are outside correct operating parameters including: a.
  • Page 96 Title subtitle     90 |...
  • Page 97 If you start a dive within two hours of a successful Pre-dive being conduct-   ed then EXPLORER will display the following Startup screen (Fig. 4.11). Now you can simply select DIVE or go through the Pre-dive sequence Fig. 4.10 again by selecting PREDIVE.

  • Page 98: User Fault Finding & Testing

    User Fault Finding & Testing PRE-DIVE PRIMARY ERROR MESSAGES & THEIR MEANINGS Message Meaning The batteries in the EXPLORER must be charged prior to diving.   sensor is unable to calibrate and must be replaced or removed (the 5 minute pre-breather system will be activated).
  • Page 99 Message Meaning Low HP gas in dive cylinder.   If HP reduces by >50bar/735 psi or does not reduce by at least 5bar/73.5 psi.   Make sure cylinder valve is fully open. Check cylinder size is correct in DEFAULT GAS Menu. Do not use unlisted cylinders.
  • Page 100 Message Meaning The LCV and OPV are not vent- ing at the correct pressure. Flush valves with fresh water and repeat test. If the problem persists return the unit to your dealer.   You have stopped breathing while conducting a pre-breathe se- quence.

  • Page 101: Part 5 Mandatory Diving Skills

    Mandatory Diving Skills Explorer basics The primary diving skills required to use the EXPLORER will be covered in your chosen agency's training program and will not be reviewed here. However, there are certain unit-specific skills, which must be covered during your training course. These are detailed below.
  • Page 102 is acceptable for the following reasons: 1. Water entering the counterlung is forced out again by the LCV system. 2. A small amount of water will not affect the CO absorbent performance Moving water into the water removal system allows you to purge the water through the LCV.
  • Page 103 at best reduce the learning experience to a series of ‘hoops’ that should be jumped through. This is not the goal at all; the desire to learn should be nurtured by making the experience as informative, fun, and as exciting as possible.

  • Page 104: In-Water Skills Chart

    Calibration of Complete calibra- To confirm calibra- Explain sensor Explorer tion of O & CO tion of all sensors calibration rules sensors. on primary elec- in manual, impor- tronics with air CAL tance of sensor po- sequence.
  • Page 105 Skill Skill Learning Purpose Details Number Requirement Carry and use of Carry external To verify bailout The unit should be additional bailout bailout gas cylinder systems function. To weighted to offset on dives deeper ensure the diver is the buoyant volume than 18 m/60 ft.
  • Page 106 SMB followed ancy and monitor tionship between by a safe ascent, displays, while changes due to stopping at 6 m/ 20 tasked with SMB ascent and buoy- ft, while using the deployment. ancy changes. EXPLORER. 100 |...
  • Page 107 STATUS informa- System, & HUD/ alarms. tion. To understand the Using the Simu- set-up menus of lator APP and the EXPLORER display, understand the surface menu’s Gas share with a User demonstrates To practice deploy- Stay on the EX- buddy...

  • Page 108: Explorer Skills Completed

    Explorer Skills - Completed DRY SKILLS Student Instructor 1. Management of O-rings Student Instructor 2. Assemble the unit Student Instructor 3. Proper dive planning Student Instructor 4. Post dive care Student Instructor 5. Complete Explorer Exam (with a minimum score of 80%,...

  • Page 109: Part 6 Complete Disassembly

    The full deal INTRODUCTION The information below will enable complete disassembly, cleaning, rebuild- ing, and testing of the EXPLORER Rebreather. Further disassembly must be performed by a qualified Hollis EXPLORER Technician. GENERAL NOTES ON ASSEMBLY 1. All O-rings should be lightly lubricated.
  • Page 110 BOV REASSEMBLY • Clean the mushroom valve carrier O-ring and the groove around the mushroom valve carriers. Lightly grease and refit new O-rings. • Inspect the mushroom valve and mushroom valve carrier for damage. Wash/disinfect and remove any debris from the carrier. •...
  • Page 111 • Mushroom valve (right hand side) leak. Remove the carrier and inspect again. • BOV barrel O-ring or activation handle O-ring leak. Refer to a Hollis ser- vice center. • Remove both hoses from the Canister (leave connected at the BOV/ DSV).
  • Page 112 Faults: • If bubbles come out of the mouthpiece there may be a leak in the barrel/ activation handle seals. Return to your Hollis dealer for repair. EXPLORER LSS MODULE - DISASSEMBLY/ASSEMBLY • Remove the LSS Module by twisting the lock ring anti-clock wise ½...
  • Page 113 SENSOR MODULE - DISASSEMBLY/ASSEMBLY – OXYGEN SENSOR MAINTENANCE/TESTING • Remove the Sensor Module (Fig. 6.2) from the Canister • Remove all 3 oxygen sensors (Fig. 6.3) • Inspect the Thermal Profile Monitor (TPM) body and O-ring for damage ,and clean the TPM with warm soapy water. NEVER expose the sensors to water.
  • Page 114 CANISTER END CAP - DISASSEMBLY/ASSEMBLY • Remove the Right Hand end cap by twisting the lock ring counter-clock wise ½ turn. • Inspect, clean, O-ring and sealing surfaces re-grease and refit the end cap sealing O-rings (Fig. 6.5). • Refit the head by pushing it into the canister and turning the lock ring clockwise by 180 degrees to 3 O’clock.
  • Page 115 • Inspect and replace the quad ring seal as recommended in the mainte- nance chart. • Inspect the upper and lower steel mesh for damage. Your Hollis dealer can replace damaged meshes. • Fill with CO absorbent (as per the manual and label) and refit the top nut and spring.
  • Page 116 PUTTING ASSEMBLIES TOGETHER • Ensure the Canister is in place and secured with it’s 4 screws • Fit the Sensor Module, EXPLORER Module and Right Hand end cap along with a new Absorbent Filter. • Fit the LP hose to the ADV •...
  • Page 117 COMPLETE EXPLORER TEST Follow the on-screen pre-dive sequence If the unit fails the negative or HP leak test and the fault is not easily recog- nizable. Follow these steps: • Remove the LCV hose from the Canister or restrict the hose to stop the counterlung venting through the LCV •...
  • Page 118 User Maintenance, Absorbent, & Service Oxygen Sensors APPROVED OXYGEN SENSORS The EXPLORER is only approved to use Hollis EXPLORER Oxygen Sen- sors. Hollis EXPLORER Oxygen Sensors have temperature ranges as detailed below. Operating temperature range: 0 – 40 °C Storage temperature: -20 to +50 °C Recommended storage temperature: +5 to +15 °C...
  • Page 119 • Check the sensor membrane. A certain amount of moisture will always appear on and around the sensors. If you suspect excessive water has made contact with the sensor faces. Remove excess water carefully with a paper tissue and leave to dry in a warm area. If the jack socket on the sensor is wet, the sensor may be damaged, as the electronics inside the sensor will also be wet.

  • Page 120: Sanitizing

    Sanitizing The recommended sanitizing product for the EXPLORER is Steramine™. This sanitizer is available through your Hollis dealer. Please see www.Steramine.com for Safety Handling Instructions. Basic sanitizing can be conducted by making up a solution in the correct quantities and soaking or wiping the part with the solution.

  • Page 121: Co 2 Absorbent

    After a dive and providing the absorbent filter remains in a sealed state (i.e. within a closed EXPLORER loop) it may be used again until the limit of the absorbent timer is reached. Storage for more than 24 hours is not recom- mended and a used absorbent filter removed from the canister should be discarded.

  • Page 122: Service

    SERVICE Your instructor will educate you on what you the end user can service yourself. For all other service needs your Hollis Explorer Technician has been trained in the proper skills to service your your Hollis equipment. Always follow the Maintenance Schedule at the end of this chapter to keep your EXPLORER in peak condition.

  • Page 123: Maintenance Schedule

    Maintenance schedule KEY: E = before every dive A = annually C = at canister change 30 = every 30 hours of diving Item User (U) or Inspect/clean Replace hours/ Notes Dealer (D) service Mushroom valves 100/annually or if damaged prior Quad Seal 30/annually or if damaged prior...
  • Page 124 Item User (U) or Inspect/clean Replace hours/ Notes Dealer (D) service Hoses + mouth- See separate items Fresh water flush piece assembly on this list daily. Disinfect end of each trip or soon- er if required. LCV assembly Wash at end of dive 200/annual or if Fresh water flush trip...

  • Page 125: Part 8 Approved Products

    Tribolube 71® DeoxIT® Gold GN5 Electrical Contact Cleaner Other products not listed may be appropriate for use with the Explorer. If there is a particular product which you wish to use, please call the factory to make sure the product does not contain chemical components which may be harmful to components within the rebreather or the diver.

  • Page 126: Glossary

    Glossary Absorbent: chemical media used to remove CO from exhaled gas Absorbent Filter: Mechanical assembly where the CO absorbent is housed ADV: automatic diluent valve - a valve that automatically adds fresh gas supply to the counter- lungs as it collapses from increased pressure of depth or if it is needed after venting too much gas as in a mask clearing exercise.
  • Page 127 Negative Pressure Check: a test placing the Breathing Loop under a vacuum condition to check for leaks : oxygen OC: open circuit Optocon: The wireless transmission system used in Explorer to send data between the Oxygen Sensor: Galvanic oxygen sensors LSS and Sensor Module. OPV: over-pressure valve...
  • Page 128 United States Naval Sea Otters and other marine life in Monterey Surface Warfare Command, developed Bay. In 1970, Hollis made some of the first and delivered a unit called the “ATUBA” dives on the Electrolung rebreather using...

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