What is one benefit of using steel cylinders in diving?

Using steel cylinders in diving offers several advantages, one of which is their ability to accommodate larger gas volumes. Steel cylinders generally have a higher pressure rating compared to aluminum cylinders, meaning they can hold a greater volume of gas at the same size. This allows divers to have an extended bottom time or to manage deeper dives effectively without needing to carry multiple tanks.

The increased capacity of steel tanks can be particularly beneficial in technical diving and situations where gas management is critical. It enables divers to conserve energy and reduces the frequency of tank changes or fills during dives, thereby enhancing safety and efficiency.

Understanding the characteristics of steel cylinders is essential for planning dives, as they often influence buoyancy, weighting, and gas supply considerations based on the dive profile.