The Atlantair range of Self Contained Breathing Apparatus (SCBA), which meets the growing need for SCBA by military units, is being launched into the worldwide market by Avon Protection Systems, part of Avon Rubber p.l.c., at DSEi, London, UK from 11-14 September 2007.   

The Atlantair launch at DSEi marks Avon Protection System’s entry into the SCBA market outside the USA, where it has a leading position in SCBA technology through Avon – ISI.

The Atlantair range of SCBA meets the latest EN137:2006 class 2, which includes a new high temperature engulfment test, and also the new BS8468-1 standard for chemical, biological, radiological and nuclear (CBRN) SCBA.   

Atlantair addresses the growing demand for a tactical SCBA capability from specialist and paramilitary forces, explosive ordnance disposal (EOD) units, as well as naval and air force firefighting units.   Avon Protection Systems is also utilising its Atlantair SCBA technology in its new multi-role ST53 system to provide war-fighters with the high protection and independence from atmosphere offered by SCBA and the long duration of a respirator system.

Atlantair integrates a wide range of standard features in an ergonomically designed system, which includes a head up display (HUD) and integrated voice and activated radio communications.   The product is easy to maintain, delivering low ownership costs.  

The Atlantair SCBA range has the world’s smallest, lowest profile Demand Valve. It either offers integrated bypass and first breath activation or an Optional AirSwitch mask capability to allow instant access to breathing air from a ready state. The integrated HUD allows the user to monitor alarm conditions as well as the status of the cylinder. The fully integrated voice communications are hands free. There is also a choice of lightweight carbon cylinders pressured to 200 and 300 bar. Options include buddy breather, cylinder fast fill connection, airline connection and wireless personal alert system.  

Jim Naylor, Sales and Marketing Manager, Avon Protection Systems, said, “The Atlantair SCBA technology enables Avon to offer a broad capability in respiratory protection, which gives military units exceptional operational flexibility when dealing with extreme CBRN threats”.