SuperLite® 17B

Chapter 3
Operating Instructions
WARNING
This manual is our effort to explain the operation, maintenance and use of the SuperLite® -17B.
We do not herein make any effort to teach the principles of diving. It is our assumption the reader
is a qualified diver. We highly recommend that all divers should train, under controlled condi-
tions, in the use of any model of commercial diving helmet that they have not previously used or
trained in, prior to use on the job.

3.1 Introduction
This section provides advice on how to use the WARNING
SuperLite®-17B. The use of these diving helmets
will vary with the type of work and environmental Kirby Morgan diving helmets are not in-
conditions. The basic procedures of donning and tended for use with a self contained gas
removing these helmets will be similar for every job. supply (scuba). There is no provision for
surface swimming once the scuba air
A proper training program in a calm, clear body of supply is depleted. This could lead to
water should be undertaken. If the diver has not used suffocation or drowning, which could be
the SuperLite®-17B before, they must not dive with fatal.
these helmets without proper training.

However, divers that are familiar and trained in the

use of previous Kirby Morgan masks; i.e., KMB 8,
9, 10, 18, 28, the Navy MK. 1 mask, Navy MK. 21
helmet, or the Navy Mk. 22 mask, or other Kirby
Morgan helmets, will find that all Kirby Morgan
diving helmets and masks have the breathing system
controls located in the same position. The operation
of this helmet will also be similar. The diver must be
tended at the surface at all times by a trained, quali-
fied commercial diving tender.

3.2 Design Purpose

All Kirby Morgan diving helmets are designed for
use with an umbilical.

The umbilical is usually composed of at least a gas

or air supply hose and communication wire, assem-
bled with waterproof tape (and in some umbilicals
wound similar to strands in a rope) to form a single
unit. Some umbilicals also have included a hose for
hot water, a pneumofathometer hose, and a strength
member, such as a cable or strong line.

It is strongly recommended that the air/gas umbilical

be married to a strength member in a manner that The diver must be tended at the surface at all times
allows the strength member to receive the strain. by a trained, qualified commercial diving tender.
This will help reduce the possibility of umbilical and
umbilical fitting fatigue and possible failure.

© ⅯⅯⅩⅢ Kirby Morgan Dive Systems, Inc. All rights reserved. Document # 130311001 25
SuperLite® 17B

The umbilical is the diver’s lifeline to the diving

control station. When using a high-pressure console, for maximum
breathing performance it is desirable to maintain an
The diver must be tended at the surface at all times over bottom supply pressure of 150-165 p.s.i.g. (10.2
by a trained, qualified commercial diving tender. bar) when diving to depths of 100 FSW (30 msw),
Never dive without a qualified tender holding your and 175-200 p.s.i.g. (11.2-13.6 bar) over bottom
diving hose. when diving to depths in excess of 100 FSW (30
msw). With the many different gas supply console
The diving control station can be at the surface, in configurations in use, it is important to ensure that
a diving bell, or in a submerged habitat. The diving the gas supply system used, is capable of supplying
control station is the center of the air/gas supply, com- the helmet with the necessary pressure and flow of
munications with the diver, and diving procedures. gas to allow the diver to work safely and efficiently.
The station can be as simple as a tender with a set of See Table 1 in Section 2.5 as a guide to supply pres-
“phones” (communication amplifier), or as complex sure requirements.
as a control van in the midst of a saturation system.
When using a low-pressure compressor (200-225
WARNING p.s.i.) follow the recommendations in Table 2 in Sec-
Decompression diving always involves tion 2.5 for optimum performance.
the risk of decompression sickness.
Omitted decompression due to loss of In countries that have adopted C.E. standards only
gas supply or other accidents can cause C.E. certified supply systems and components may
serious injury or death. The use of the KM be used in conjunction with the helmet.
37 or 57 cannot prevent this type of injury.

KMDSI manufactures a complete Air Control System,

the KMACS 5™ with or without integrated commu-
nications as well as pneumofathometer. This portable
system can be operated on either a high pressure air
supply or on a low pressure compressor. The Air
Control System has a specially designed high pressure
regulator that reduces high pressure air and provides
an adequate flow to support divers to a depth of 130
FSW (40 msw)

The helmet demand regulator and side block assem-

blies have been designed to operate with a supply pres-
sure from 90 p.s.i.g. (6.2 bar) over ambient pressure to
225 p.s.i.g. (16 bar) over ambient pressure. This wide
operating range allows flexibility when using various
gas supply systems.

WARNING
High pressure supply regulators and as-
sociated piping systems for surface sup-
plied diving with Kirby Morgan helmets
and masks must be capable of delivering
a minimum of 4.5 acfm to the diver at
depth. Only systems that can deliver the
required gas flow should be used.

26 © ⅯⅯⅩⅢ Kirby Morgan Dive Systems, Inc. All rights reserved. Document # 130311001
 SuperLite® 17B

3.3 First Use of Your Kirby Morgan

Diving Helmet
When you first receive your Kirby Morgan diving
helmet, carefully unpack it and examine it for any
damage that may have occurred during shipment.
Use the inspection sheet provided to ensure that no
damage has occurred. The purchaser must contact the
freight carrier and/or the KMDSI dealer if the helmet
has been damaged in shipment.

Be sure to complete the enclosed warranty card

and return it to KMDSI immediately. No warranty
claims will be honored without a correctly completed
warranty card on file at KMDSI.

WARNING
KMDSI must have your current address
to ensure that you receive all safety no- The head cushion must fit properly. You can add or
tices and other important information remove foam to adjust the fit.
concerning the helmet. Please notify
KMDSI of any change of address.
can be added to give a tighter fit.
3.4 Initial Adjustments to Your
Helmet The head cushion fit is extremely important. A proper
Before using the helmet for the first time, it must be fitting headliner keeps the nose and mouth securely
checked and adjusted for proper fit. There are several in the oral nasal allowing a good seal and providing
adjustments that must be made to provide a more maximum regulator performance and CO2 washout.
comfortable fit when wearing the helmet.
On the SuperLite®-17B there is a chin strap separate
from the head cushion bag. The chin strap bolts di-
3.4.1 Head Cushion rectly to the helmet and is secured around the outside
The fit of the helmet is primarily determined by the of the head cushion in the chin area. Ensure the chin
layers of open cell foam that fill the head cushion bag. strap is used.
The center top/rear foam in the SuperLite®-17B is If the chin strap is not fastened or positioned properly,
very dense to reduce compression and spring-back. the helmet can float up on the diver’s head. This can
This reduces the tendency of the helmet to ride up make the helmet very uncomfortable and may pull
when underwater. Do not replace this rigid foam with the oral nasal mask away from the face. Addition-
a soft foam. A softer foam is used on the sides and
around the bottom of the head cushion.
WARNING
The diver’s head can be moved forward into the oral On older SuperLite®-17B helmets the chin
nasal mask by adding layers of additional foam at strap is part of the head cushion. All hel-
the rear of the head cushion. The diver’s head can be mets should be changed to have the chin
moved up or down in the helmet by decreasing or in- strap bolt directly to the helmet.
creasing the foam pads at the top of the head cushion.
Old style head cushions with chinstraps
Usually, a diver with a small head will use all the may be used, but the chin strap that is
foam that comes with a new hat. A diver with a larger bolted to the helmet MUST be used. We
head will need to remove a layer of foam in the center recommend that the old head cushion
top and back of the head cushion. The foam may be chin strap be removed (i.e., cut off) to
cut with scissors to provide a better fit, or more foam prevent confusion.

© ⅯⅯⅩⅢ Kirby Morgan Dive Systems, Inc. All rights reserved. Document # 130311001 27
SuperLite® 17B

ally, in the unlikely event the helmet was separated

from the neck clamp/yoke assembly, the helmet will
CAUTION
be retained. Avoid trimming neoprene neck dams too
much. Neoprene neck dams will loosen
3.4.2 Adjusting the Neck Dam over time as they are used and the cells
If your helmet is new, or any time you replace the of the foam neoprene break down. If you
neck dam, it must be adjusted to fit you. New neck trim the neck dam too much it will be too
dams are cone shaped and will probably be too tight loose and will leak. Trim the neck dam
if not properly trimmed. until it is snug, then stretch it before use.

Trim the neck dam until it is still snug. (You can

also stretch it by sliding it over a SCUBA tank and WARNING
Do not breathe the
WARNING fumes from uncured
neoprene cement.
Never dive with a neck dam that is too These fumes are
tight. A neck dam that is too tight could dangerous and can
cause the diver to pass out due to pres- cause unconscious-
sure on the carotid artery in the neck. ness. They can also
This could lead to severe personal injury cause long term
or death. damage to body
tissue. Read and
allowing it to sit overnight.) If you still cannot get follow all precautions listed on the neo-
the proper fit by stretching the neck dam, it must be prene cement can. Allow neoprene ce-
trimmed further. Do not trim more than 1/4 inch at ment to cure for a minimum of 24 hours
a time. before using the helmet.

Trim the neck dam until it is still snug. Trim only a

maximum of 1/4 inch off the circumference of the
neck dam at a time. When you are done, the neck
dam must be tight enough so that it does not leak.
This may feel a bit snug out of the water, but will
be more comfortable underwater once the neoprene
compresses from increased pressure.

Trim the neck dam with the largest, sharpest scissors

available, in order to make as few cuts as possible.
There must be no jagged edges on the neck dam or it
may eventually tear. Sew and/or glue the edge of the
original seam to keep the stitching from unraveling.

As the neoprene neck dam ages, it will become looser, New neck dams must be adjusted so that they fit
due to a natural breakdown of the cells. This is par- properly.
ticularly true if the helmet is locked in and out of a
bell or saturation system. As the neck dam becomes
worn it will need replacement to ensure that it seals allow the modification to the neck dam 24 hours to
properly. dry and solvents to off gas.
A neoprene neck dam that is too large may be tight-
ened up by cutting a wedge out of the open end. Glue
the cut back edges back together using wet suit ce-
ment, then sew the glued seam together. Be sure to

28 © ⅯⅯⅩⅢ Kirby Morgan Dive Systems, Inc. All rights reserved. Document # 130311001
 SuperLite® 17B

3.5 Pre Dress-In Procedure Binder head screws are used in this application for
Before dressing in for a dive, inspection of the helmet their self locking characteristics. Overtightening may
systems must be made to be sure it is in proper work- strip out the threaded inserts in the helmet shell.
ing order. This must be done well in advance of the
dive so any problems can be fixed without delaying 10) Make sure the head cushion is properly fastened
the dive. The following steps are part of the recom-
mended daily maintenance.
WARNING
3.5.1 Pre-Dive Visual Inspection The O-ring on the base of the helmet
Visually inspect the exterior and interior of the hel- shell on the SuperLite®-17B must be in
met. place and in good condition. Without a
proper functioning O-ring the helmet will
1) The demand regulator cover assembly should not leak and possibly flood. Drowning could
have excessive dents or dents deeper than 1/4”. The result.
purge button must operate freely and should have no
less than 1/16” and no more than 1/8” inward travel (snapped) inside the helmet to the snap tabs.
before gas flow is heard.
11) Make sure the chin strap is the new version that
bolts directly inside the helmet with tab bolts. If the
WARNING older system is used where the chin strap is part of
There must be no holes in the neck dam. the head cushion, replace it as soon as possible.
If there are any holes in the neck dam the
helmet could leak or flood. In addition, 12) Make sure the strap guide and yoke strap that help
the demand regulator will not operate secure the helmet are in place and in good condition.
properly. Drowning could result.

2) The neck dam must not be torn or punctured, and

properly trimmed to fit.

3) Inspect the O-ring on the bottom of the helmet WARNING

shell. The O-ring must be in place and undamaged. All parts on Kirby Morgan diving helmets
must be adjusted to their proper torque
4) Inspect the bent tube that supplies breathing gas specifications. See Appendix 1 for a
to the regulator. There must be no dents or kinks in complete listing of torque specifications
the assembly, or visible signs of damage. for each part. Failure to adjust parts to
the recommended specifications could
5) Inspect the face port. It must be in good condition. lead to helmet failure and accidents. This
could be fatal.
6) Be sure the communications wires are hooked up
and tested.

7) Inspect the oral nasal mask. Make sure it is on

the regulator mount nut properly and the valve is
installed properly.

8) Make sure the head cushion is properly fastened

inside the helmet.

9) Check the screws on the port retainer . They must

be adjusted to the proper torque setting specifications
noted in Appendix 1 of this manual.

© ⅯⅯⅩⅢ Kirby Morgan Dive Systems, Inc. All rights reserved. Document # 130311001 29
SuperLite® 17B

3.6 Preparing the Helmet for Diving

3.6.1 Clean Face Port
Thoroughly clean the face port with a soft cloth and
a mild liquid detergent solution. DO NOT USE ANY
AEROSOL SPRAYS ON THE POLYCARBONATE
PORT!
3.6.2 Check Moving Parts
Check all moving parts, such as the regulator adjust-
ment knob, the defogger control knob, emergency
(EGS) knob, and the nose block device knob and the
yoke/neck clamp parts to ensure smooth and proper
operation.

Inspect the yoke/neck clamp and latch catch mecha-

nism. They must engage and disengage properly. If
the Yoke/Neck Clamp Assembly has been used with
a different helmet, it MUST be readjusted to fit the
current helmet.
3.6.3 Check Communications
Check the communications system for proper opera-
tion. Put the helmet on and talk to an assistant on the
amplifier. If you are by yourself, with the helmet off
take the helmet near the amplifier and tap on each You can test the one-way valve either by attempting
earphone and the microphone, listening to the taps to suck air through the valve with the steady-flow
on the amplifier/speaker. valve open, or by connecting the bail-out to the main
supply (with the steady flow and regulator adjustment
Talk into the amplifier/speaker feeling the vibration closed) and opening the emergency valve to check
on each earphone and the microphone with your for back-flow.
fingertips. Check the fit and tightness of the comm
module mount nut.
3) You can also test the one-way valve by opening
3.6.4 One-Way Valve Check the steady-flow valve and attempting to suck air back
The one-way valve must be tested daily, prior to through the one-way valve. This is also a good way
commencement of diving operations. There are two to test.
ways to test the valve

1) Prior to attaching (or pressuring up) the umbilical,

close the emergency valve knob, attach and pressure WARNING
up the emergency hose. Shut off the defogger control Never dive if the one-way valve is not op-
knob and screw in the adjustment knob on the regula- erating properly. If the hose or breathing
tor all the way. gas/air fitting breaks near the surface a
serious injury could result to the diver’s
2) With the emergency hose pressurized, turn on the lungs and/or eyes. In extreme cases this
emergency valve knob. If any gas escapes out the end could be fatal. The one-way valve must
of the adapter, the one-way valve is faulty and must be tested daily prior to the commence-
be rebuilt or replaced. A one-way valve repair kit is ment of diving operations. Failure of the
available for rebuilding these valves (Part # 525-330). one-way valve could cause serious injury
or death.

30 © ⅯⅯⅩⅢ Kirby Morgan Dive Systems, Inc. All rights reserved. Document # 130311001
 SuperLite® 17B

3.7 Emergency Gas System (EGS) lower rear or front, while larger tanks are usually
If the diver’s main gas supply fails, the diver must mounted vertically in the center back similar to a
have another source of gas that will enable them to Scuba diver’s tank. Some harness designs incorporate
return to the dive station or to a point where a nor- a cloth enclosure into which the tank fits. The entire
mal gas supply can be reestablished. For this reason, tank, valve, and regulator are enclosed in fabric. This
an emergency gas supply (bailout) cylinder must be helps to prevent snagging.
used on all dives. The bailout cylinder is normally
worn on the back using a combination backpack and WARNING
lifting harness.
Never dive without attaching the umbili-
cal to some type of harness or clip on the
WARNING diver’s body. Never allow the umbilical to
Do not dive without a diver worn Emer- pull on the helmet directly or the diver
gency Gas System. If the main gas supply could suffer a neck injury.
is lost, you will have nothing to breathe
and may drown.
The diving harness
must have a provision
for attaching the emer-
gency gas supply and
a place to attach the
diver’s umbilical.

Diver donning a complete bail-out system.

Most commercial divers wear a harness (separate

from the weight belt) that is used for several pur-
poses. The harness is fitted with large metal rings
(usually brass or stainless steel).

The umbilical is hooked into one of these rings

to keep any strain off the helmet. In addition, the
rings on the harness are used to hang tools and other
equipment. Usually the harness is also designed to
provide a means of lifting an unconscious diver from
the water. This harness is the best method of securing
the emergency breathing gas to the diver. The umbilical should always be attached to the har-
ness to avoid a direct pull on the diver’s helmet.
A small tank can be mounted horizontally on the

© ⅯⅯⅩⅢ Kirby Morgan Dive Systems, Inc. All rights reserved. Document # 130311001 31
SuperLite® 17B

When determining the size of the emergency gas diver pressure. The KMDSI SuperFlow® First Stage
cylinder to use, several factors must be considered. SCUBA regulator (Part #305-161) is an excellent
The divers depth, the length of time the diver may be device for this use.
without the main gas supply, and the gas consump-
tion rate. Regardless of the cylinder used, it should These regulators reduce the tank pressure to ap-
be of sufficient volume to allow the diver to ascend proximately 145 p.s.i.g. (9.9 bar). Other quality high
at a normal rate or transit to a point where a normal performance Scuba regulators may also be used.
gas supply can be reestablished. Connect the first stage hose with a set of quick dis-
connecting locking sleeves to the emergency valve
European C.E. ONLY assembly located on the side block.
WARNING
A standard SCUBA submersible pressure The first stage regulator must have at least two low
gauge must be connected to the high
pressure port on the first stage so that
the diver can monitor their emergency An over-pressure relief valve
supply. must be installed on the first
stage used for the Emergency
Gas Supply.
Use a good quality first stage for
your emergency gas supply.
pressure ports. One port is used for the connector
hose to the emergency valve and the second is used to
install an overpressure relief valve (Part #200-017).
If the first stage develops a leak, the full pressure of
the tank could be placed on the low pressure hose.
This could cause the hose to burst. The overpressure
relief valve will bleed off any leak.

Make sure the emergency valve knob is turned off,

otherwise the emergency gas supply will be used up
without the diver’s knowledge. Once the emergency
In European countries that have adopted C.E. certi- supply hose is connected, the tank valve is turned on
fication, only C.E. certified cylinders are allowed to to pressurize the hose. In the event of an emergency
be used and must have a minimum charged capacity due to a loss of the main gas supply, the emergency
available to the diver of 1400 N/l (50 scf). The emer- valve knob located on the side block is turned on
gency gas supply must only be fitted with a KMDSI supplying gas to the side block assembly and the
first stage regulator and have a KMDSI over pressure regulator.
relief valve installed (Part # 200-017).

The relief must be adjusted to start lifting at ap- WARNING

proximately 20 p.s.i.g. (1.4 bar) above the regulator Never dive without an over pressurization
intermediate setting. The purpose of the relief valve relief valve installed on the EGS regulator
is to allow pressure to vent off in the event the first (1st stage). Without the relief valve if the
stage regulator develops a leak or creeps. Without a EGS regulator develops an internal leak, or
pressure relief valve, the hose could rupture and the carries-away, the full pressure of the EGS
emergency gas supply would be lost. cylinder would be placed on the low-pres-
sure EGS hose and the Emergency Valve.
The emergency air/gas tank must be fitted with This could cause the low-pressure hose to
a good quality first stage regulator to reduce the burst resulting in the complete loss of the
pressure to less than 225 p.s.i.g. (16 bar) ambient EGS system.

32 © ⅯⅯⅩⅢ Kirby Morgan Dive Systems, Inc. All rights reserved. Document # 130311001
 SuperLite® 17B

There are several possible ways to configure your emergency gas system, although at KMDSI we only recom-
mend one method. The configuration we recommend is as follows:
Cylinder Valve Open - EGS Valve on Helmet Closed
This is the only method that we recommend. The advantages of this method are as follows:
• You only need to open one valve to activate your emergency supply.
• There is little danger of flooding your first stage regulator and ruining it.

Possible Emergency Gas Supply Cylinder & EGS Valve Configurations

Configuration Cylinder Valve EGS Valve Advantages/Disadvantages

Configuration 1 On Off Advantages

(Regulator pressurized) • One valve to open
• First stage won’t normally flood
Disadvantages
• If hose or first stage leaks some
or all EGS gas will be lost

Configuration 2* Off On Advantages

(No pressure in • One valve to open
regulator) • No loss of gas from cylinder
if hose leaks or regulator leaks
Disadvantages
• First stage will flood and must
be serviced after each day of
diving

Configuration 3* On momentarily Off Advantages

(Regulator pressurized then Off • No loss of cylinder gas if
then cylinder valve hose or regulator leaks
closed) Disadvantages
• Two valves to open in
emergency
• Slow leak on long dive may
result in flooded 1st stage
• If dive depth exceeds pressure
in first stage, first stage will flood

Configuration 4* Off Off Advantages

• No use of cylinder gas unless
emergency occurs
Disadvantages
• Regulator will flood and need
service daily
• Two valves to open in
* Requires ability to reach cylinder emergency
valve without difficulty

© ⅯⅯⅩⅢ Kirby Morgan Dive Systems, Inc. All rights reserved. Document # 130311001 33
SuperLite® 17B

There are risks with each method of configuring your WARNING

bail-out system. There is a risk that if you have the Some divers, keep the EGS gas cylinder
bail-out bottle on and the emergency valve on the valve shut during the dive. Their rationale
helmet closed, that the emergency gas could be lost being; in the event of an emergency, they
if the hose or the first stage itself develops a leak. will simply open the EGS cylinder valve
However, KMDSI believes that this method poses thus eliminating any EGS air/gas unknow-
the least amount of risk for the diver. ingly being lost due to either a 1st stage
failure or EGS hose failure.
Probably the most serious problem with any of the
other possible configurations is that the first stage will KMDSI strongly recommends never div-
almost certainly flood if it is not pressurized while ing with the EGS cylinder valve shut. The
you are underwater. reasoning behind this is twofold. First,
with the EGS cylinder valve open, gas
If the regulator floods and is not promptly serviced, is immediately available in the event of
it will not perform properly when you need it in an topside gas interruption via the EGS valve
emergency. As a diver, you always must decide how on the side block simply by opening it.
much risk and what types of risk you are willing to Secondly, and most importantly, if the
expose yourself to when you dive. It’s up to each EGS regulator (1st stage) is not pressur-
individual to make an informed choice regarding ized, during descent it is possible that sea
how to configure your bail-out system. water will leak through the first stage in-
termediate circuit and regulator, causing
failure of the EGS regulator and resulting
in possible injury or death.

WARNING
Never connect the main gas supply hose
from the diving control station to the
Emergency Gas valve assembly (EGS).
If this is done there is no one-way valve
protection for the diver in the event of
damage to the umbilical or related equip-
ment. The diver could be exposed to a
serious “squeeze”. This can result in seri-
ous personal injury or death.

WARNING
Never connect a high-pressure hose
directly to the EGS valve assembly, as
this will transmit the full pressure of the
Always be sure to check the pressure in your bail-out tank to the side block. The side block is
bottle before you dive. not designed for high pressure and may
burst. This may result in severe personal
KMDSI strongly recommends the use of a submers-
injury or death.
ible pressure gauge with every bail-out system. Not
only does this make it very easy to check your emer-
gency gas pressure prior to diving, it also allows you,
in most cases, to periodically check the pressure in
your system while you dive. In this way, if you have
a leak, you will probably figure it out and will be able
to take appropriate action.

34 © ⅯⅯⅩⅢ Kirby Morgan Dive Systems, Inc. All rights reserved. Document # 130311001
 SuperLite® 17B

3.8 Setting Up to Dive

3.8.1 Flushing Out the Umbilical
Before connecting the umbilical to the helmet, the
umbilical must be flushed out to remove any dirt,
moisture, or other debris. Connect the topside umbili-
cal end to the topside diver control console. Ensure
there is no pressure in the divers umbilical.

Carefully uncap the helmet end of the umbilical and

hold securely while pointing in a safe direction, then
slowly bring up gas pressure to approximately 25-40
p.s.i.g. (1.7-2.7 bar). Allow the gas to flow for at least
15 seconds. If it is not going to be used immediately,
the umbilical should be recapped.
Connecting the umbilical to the helmet.
3.8.2 Connecting the Umbilical to the
Helmet
When you connect the hose to the helmet be sure to
use a wrench to hold the adapter, or inlet fitting, and
a second wrench to turn the swivel fitting on the hose.
If this is not done, the adapter will turn inside the one-
way valve. If this happens repeatedly the threads will
wear and the valve will need to be replaced.

The connection between the hose and the helmet must

only be made up “snug”. Excessive force will deform
and ruin the adapter. A second wrench must be used
when the helmet is disconnected as well, otherwise
the adapter and/or the one-way valve assembly may
become loose and fail to make a seal.
Always use two wrenches to connect the umbilical to
WARNING the adapter. Use the correct size wrenches whenever
possible to avoid damage to the fittings.
If the one-way valve or the adapter is
loosened this will allow breathing gas
to leak out of the breathing system. This
could also result in a loss of all pressure
to the helmet, leaving the diver with noth-
ing to breathe.

If you are using waterproof connectors for your com-

munications, take extra care in handling these pieces.
To connect the male and female parts, align the large
pin on the male connector with the yellow mark on
the female connector. Press the two connectors to-
gether until you hear a distinct “pop”. Do not twist
the connectors. Tape the two connectors with a bit
of electrical tape to prevent them from pulling apart.
Connecting the waterproof connectors.
To separate the connectors remove the tape, grasp
them at the thickest part, place your thumbs against Do not twist the connectors. Do not pull them apart
each other, and push apart until the connectors are by pulling on the thin part of the wires.
disconnected.

© ⅯⅯⅩⅢ Kirby Morgan Dive Systems, Inc. All rights reserved. Document # 130311001 35
SuperLite® 17B

3.8.3 Opening the Breathing Gas Supply to WARNING

the Helmet Never use any aero-
Prior to turning on the air supply for the helmet, sol propelled sprays
check to see that the free flow valve is closed and the near the face port of
regulator adjustment knob is all the way in. the any Kirby Morgan
helmet or band mask.
Slowly bring up the gas pressure to the helmet to 150 The propellant used
(10.2 bar). Slowly back out on the regulator adjustment in these aerosols can
knob until a slight free flow develops, then turn the invisibly damage the polycarbonate face
adjustment knob in (clockwise) until the free flow port and cause it to shatter upon impact
just stops. from any strong blow. If the face port
fails underwater the helmet will flood and
To properly check the breathing system you must drowning may result.
completely don the helmet.

Make sure that the regulator adjustment knob is

screwed in and the steady-flow valve is closed before
opening the air supply to the helmet.

3.8.4 Fogging Prevention

A thin film of anti-fogging solution may be applied
to the interior of the polycarbonate face port prior
to the dive to help prevent fogging during the dive. A
mild liquid dish washing soap, or other commercially
available anti-fogging solutions, may be applied with
a soft rag to the interior of the port.

The diver should use a solution which has been found

satisfactory in the past. However, do not use an aero-
sol spray on the polycarbonate lens. The propellants
in some aerosol dispensers cause damage to the lens.

36 © ⅯⅯⅩⅢ Kirby Morgan Dive Systems, Inc. All rights reserved. Document # 130311001
 SuperLite® 17B

3.8.5 Donning The SuperLite®-17B Pull the pull pin knob out, away from the helmet.
All donning procedures must be done by the diver While holding the knob out, lift the neck clamp
until they are thoroughly at home with the helmet. handle up and out to release the tension on the clamp.
This will train for familiarity. However, the tender Swing the handle forward, toward the front of the
must be present to assist the diver and check to ensure helmet. Slide the yoke/neck clamp assembly back-
that the diver has properly donned their equipment. wards away from the helmet until the rear hinge tab
It is impossible for the diver to see whether they are disengages from the alignment sleeve.
properly dressed in once the helmet is on their head.
As a diver, to don the yoke assembly, hold the yoke/
neck clamp in your hands in front of your body.
WARNING Swing the neck clamp assembly up towards your
The tender must always be present to chest. Lift the entire unit over your head until the
assist the diver while dressing and when- opening for the yoke is positioned at the back of your
ever the diver has their helmet on their neck. Slide the yoke forward until it is centered on
head while they are out of the water. It is your neck.
difficult for the diver to walk while they
are dressed in and they can stumble and Reach over your head and insert the four fingers of
fall, resulting in serious personal injury. each hand in the opening of the neck dam. Keep your
thumbs on the outside of the neck dam. Spread the
neck dam by pulling against the palms of each hand.
Pull the neck dam over your head.

The tender must ensure the neck dam is turned so

that the top edge is up and folded down (out) away
from the diver’s neck.

Donning the yoke and neck dam.

If the yoke/neck clamp assembly is connected to the Spread the neck dam and pull it over your head.
helmet, it must be removed before you can don the
helmet. To release the neck clamp, you must first
remove the safety pin that engages the latch catch
assembly.

© ⅯⅯⅩⅢ Kirby Morgan Dive Systems, Inc. All rights reserved. Document # 130311001 37
SuperLite® 17B

Locate the ends of the chin strap before you put the
helmet on your head.

Adjust the neck dam so that it is turned up and out.

The neck dam is always turned up against the

diver’s neck. This is very important! With the neck
dam turned down, the helmet will vent air from the
neck dam causing the regulator to free flow. This will
make the helmet very uncomfortable.
Spread the head cushion so that it is easier to don
With the diver holding the helmet, the tender should
the helmet.
now connect the quick disconnect fittings for the
bailout supply. Open the regulator adjustment knob
and the defogger control knob for a steady flow from Pull the strap down and back towards the divers right
both just prior to the diver dressing into the helmet. until it is snug, but comfortable. Reach up inside the
helmet and fasten the strap under the divers chin by
The diver should place the helmet face port down attaching it to the Velcro tab on the right side of the
and locate the tab on the end of the chin strap of the head cushion.
head cushion. Loosen the tab completely. Grab the
base of the helmet with both hands while you hold Take care to prevent the end of the strap from becom-
the head cushion open. Lift the helmet over your head ing fastened between the helmet shell and the neck
and carefully lower it. dam. Tucking the end into the helmet will ensure this.
In particular, the tender should watch for this. Make
Reach up inside the front of the helmet and tighten sure the chin strap bolts directly to the helmet. If not,
the chin strap until it is just snug. The chin strap tight-
ens on the outside of the chin cushion. It does not sit
CAUTION
against the diver’s chin directly. Be sure to fasten the chin strap. If the
chin strap is not fastened properly, the
Push your head into the rear of the helmet. Then, helmet will float up on the diver’s head.
pull the helmet down and from side to side until it This can make the helmet very uncom-
is comfortable on your head. Position the chin strap fortable.
under your chin.

38 © ⅯⅯⅩⅢ Kirby Morgan Dive Systems, Inc. All rights reserved. Document # 130311001
 SuperLite® 17B

Close-up detail of hinge tab engaging alignment

sleeve.

replace it at the earliest opportunity.

Tilt your head back and push the entire yoke/neck

Lift the helmet over your head. clamp assembly backwards on your neck. This is to
engage the hinge tab on the alignment sleeve. The
front edge of the neck clamp should be under and past
the front edge of the helmet. Keep your head tilted
back, and lift the front of the helmet up with one hand.

The tender must locate the rear hinge tab on the back
of the yoke. Lift the rear hinge tab out away from the
helmet and up until it can slide over the alignment
sleeve on the back of the helmet. Slide the tab over
the sleeve.

The rear hinge tab must engage the alignment sleeve.

WARNING
If the hinge tab is not mounted on the
alignment sleeve correctly, the yoke/neck
clamp assembly could come off. Helmet
flooding may occur. Drowning and death
may result if the helmet floods.

© ⅯⅯⅩⅢ Kirby Morgan Dive Systems, Inc. All rights reserved. Document # 130311001 39
SuperLite® 17B

The pull pin must properly engage the bail on the

The diver must hold the helmet down while the clamp neck clamp.
is swung to their right to fully engage it against the
bottom of the helmet. Note how the tender is support-
ing the clamp mechanism with their left hand.

The safety pin must be installed prior to every dive.

The tender next grasps the handle on the neck clamp

assembly and swings it to the diver’s right. This ac-
tion will open the clamp fully.

While the diver holds the helmet down, push up on

The clamp is swung to the diver’s left. Once it passes the neck clamp assembly until the clamp is complete-
“over-center” it will close easily, ly seated against the bottom of the helmet. DO NOT
USE THE HANDLE AS A LEVER TO LIFT THE
CLAMP. This will damage the clamp mechanism.

40 © ⅯⅯⅩⅢ Kirby Morgan Dive Systems, Inc. All rights reserved. Document # 130311001
 SuperLite® 17B

WARNING
KMDSI strongly recommends the utiliza-
tion of the safety pin, Part # 535-900. This
pin is inserted just below the cam-lock
bail.

If a safety pin is not used, there is a possi-

bility the clamp on the yoke latching sys-
tem could be inadvertently opened during
the course of the dive by unintentional
depression of the plunger lock. Helmet
flooding, drowning and death may result.

NOTE: KMDSI recommends that all old style “push

style” pin latch catch assemblies be replaced with
new Pull Pin Latch Catch part# 505-010. The old
push pin latch catch assemblies are no longer avail-
able nor are replacement parts. The yoke strap is positioned underneath the handle
on the helmet.
Additionally the pull type latch catch should also
employ the use of the safety pin to avert accidental
opening of the latch catch during diving operations.
(Additional guidance is available by contacting Dive
Lab Inc. at (850) 235-2715 or E-Mail DiveLab@
aol.com.)

NOTE: If you are ready to dive, ensure the tender

installs the safety pin before you enter the water.

While maintaining pressure on both the helmet and

the clamp, swing the clamp handle to the diver’s left
until it passes “over-center” and closes. Open the
latch catch assembly by pulling out on the pull pin.

Lift up on the yoke assembly until the latch catch en-

gages the bail on the neck clamp handle, and release The loop on the adjustable end of the strap slides over
the pull pin. The spring loaded pull pin should bottom the yoke on the diver's right side. Tighten the yoke
in the latch catch assembly capturing the handle bail. strap by pulling down on the free end to help ensure
the helmet stays on properly.
The helmet is now locked into place and the diver
can test the breathing system properly.

If used, the yoke strap is now placed over the top

of the helmet (but under the handle) and secured in
place. The yoke strap is standard on all 17B helmets
shipping after January 2004. It’s use is strongly rec-
ommended.

© ⅯⅯⅩⅢ Kirby Morgan Dive Systems, Inc. All rights reserved. Document # 130311001 41
SuperLite® 17B

3.8.6 Testing the Breathing System

Test the defogger system by turning on and off the
WARNING
defogger control knob. The regulator should be ad- Do not perform this test unless the diver
justed by turning the adjustment knob out until a slight and their tender are stationed immedi-
steady flow starts, then back in until the flow just stops. ately adjacent to the diver’s air manifold
and you are certain the air is on to the
Next, the demand regulator system is checked for manifold. If the diver is unable to flow air
proper function: breathe in and out. Inhalation and to the helmet, either through the umbili-
exhalation effort should be nearly unnoticeable. Press cal or the bailout, they may not be able
in on the purge button in the regulator cover. This to remove the helmet easily.
should produce a strong burst of breathing gas.
To break the seal in this situation, the
diver must put their hand between the
neck dam and the neck, and pull the neck
dam away from the neck. A tender must
be standing by to assist the diver in re-
moving the helmet if needed. Suffocation
could result.

With the neck dam and yoke on the diver’s neck, the
helmet is installed and the yoke is closed. When the
diver attempts to inhale, a suction on the neck dam
is formed, indicating they are achieving a good seal.
The diver must then turn the air on immediately so
that they can breathe. If the diver does not turn the
air on they will not be able to breathe, unless the neck
dam is pulled away from their neck.

The diver must be satisfied that their helmet is work-

ing properly before they enter the water.

3.8.7 Sealing Integrity Check

If there is any doubt that the helmet is sealing prop-
erly, perform the following test prior to diving.

Turn the supply gas off at the dive control system and
bleed the umbilical.

To perform this test, the diver must have an assistant

standing by. The assistant should be in control of the
gas supply console in the event the diver needs air or
they must be ready to lend a hand. The diver must be
next to the dive control manifold so that the air may
be turned on instantly, or the diver must be ready to
run a hand between their neck and the sealing neck
dam in order to pull the neck dam away from the neck
to allow breathing.

42 © ⅯⅯⅩⅢ Kirby Morgan Dive Systems, Inc. All rights reserved. Document # 130311001
 SuperLite® 17B

3.9 Diving Procedures WARNING

3.9.1 Standing By to Dive
The diver may wear the neck dam yoke assembly Never dive without attaching the umbili-
without discomfort if they are standing by to make a cal to some type of harness or clip on the
dive. However, the helmet itself must always be the diver’s body. Never allow the umbilical
last thing put on before the diver enters the water. to pull on the helmet directly or the diver
Everything else must be ready to go before the diver could suffer a neck injury.
puts the helmet on so they won’t have to support the
weight of the helmet while out of the water.
3.9.3 Diver Dons Helmet
The diver dons the helmet as per this chapter.
3.9.2 Attaching the Umbilical to the
Harness 3.9.4 Diver Check Gas Flow Systems
The umbilical must now be hooked to the diver’s The diver must check out the breathing system them-
harness by means of a suitable clip that is bound to self as the tender finishes dressing them. Operate the
the umbilical. Some divers and companies prefer defogger valve, the demand regulator, and the purge
a quick release clip and others prefer a clip that is button to assure yourself of proper operation before
screwed together so the diver cannot easily remove entering the water.
it from their harness. The securing of the umbilical
keeps the pull of the hose at the diver’s harness and 3.9.5 Communications Check
not on the helmet. The communications system, sending and receiving,
should be checked at this point.

The communications system must be functioning

properly throughout the dive.

3.9.6 Diver Ready

The diver is now ready to enter the water. They should
be assisted to the water if needed. If a welding lens
is being used, make sure it is hinged up all the way if
the diver is making a jump entry. We do not recom-
The umbilical must be properly attached to the diver’s mend jump entries. A quick overall inspection by the
harness. tender is done and the diver is given the OK.

© ⅯⅯⅩⅢ Kirby Morgan Dive Systems, Inc. All rights reserved. Document # 130311001 43
SuperLite® 17B

3.9.7 Water Entry and Descent 3.10 Emergency Procedures

The tender must make sure there is a sufficient length 3.10.1 Flooding
of umbilical clear if the diver is using a jump entry. In the event of partial or complete flooding, the diver
There must be no chance of the umbilical hanging may clear the helmet quickly by tilting the helmet
up when the diver jumps. Also, the defogger valve down and activating the defogger control knob.
should be turned on to overpressure the helmet to Pressing in on the manual purge button in the center
prevent the possibility of water pressure from invert- of the regulator cover will evacuate water from the
ing the helmet exhaust valve when hitting the water. regulator, if any remains.

The diver must report to the surface immediately The water dump valve is located under the regulator.
after the entry. It’s a good policy to descend 10 or By placing this valve in the lowest position on the
20 FSW (3-6 MSW), pause and check the regulator helmet, water will exit more easily.
adjustment knob to ensure adjustment for the least
breathing resistance. After clearing, cautiously check for additional flood-
ing. If the helmet continues to take on water, return
The purpose of this adjustment knob is to allow the to the diving station, swimming with the water dump
diver the ability to compensate for variations in valve positioned at the lowest part of the hat: that is
umbilical supply pressure. This adjustment device with the diver’s face forward and slightly tilted down.
operates by simply increasing or decreasing the Keep the free flow knob on. This increases the air/gas
amount of spring bias tension on the demand regula- pressure slightly inside the hat and keeps the water
tor inlet valve. out. Any incoming water is automatically purged.

This adjustment device is not intended as a minimum- 3.10.2 Inhalation Resistance

maximum device. Minimum and maximum applies to If breathing becomes difficult, adjust the demand
supply pressure only. The adjustment knob should be regulator adjustment knob, for easier breathing by
adjusted by the diver to be at the easiest breathing rotating the adjustment knob counter clockwise. If
setting at all times. the breathing does not get noticeably better, press the
purge button in the regulator cover. If a surge of gas
Diving a KMDSI helmet or band mask with a bias does not flow with this action, open the emergency
setting greater than that just necessary to keep the valve.
demand valve from free flowing increases the work of
breathing and reduces the diver’s ability to perform If the flow is noticeably better, immediately notify
heavy work. topside that you are on emergency gas. Insure your
umbilical is clear and return to the stage or decent
Then the diver checks in with the surface before line. The diver should stay in communication with
descending to the job. If a closed bell is being used, topside personnel and make preparations to abort the
the diver enters the water from the bell and pauses dive. The console operator should check to ensure the
for a short time outside the trunk until they are sure supply pressure to the diver is at the proper pressure.
all systems are operating properly.
3.10.3 Gas Flow Stops
During the decent the communications must be A stop of flow in the demand regulator usually in-
checked again and the diver supply pressure should dicates the main gas supply has stopped. The diver
be adjusted as necessary to maintain the required should first open the emergency valve by turning
over-bottom pressure. It may be necessary for the the knob. If there is still no flow from the demand
diver to readjust the demand regulator by means of the regulator, the defogger valve knob should be opened.
adjustment knob once at the work site to compensate Keep in mind that if the defogger valve is left open,
for the variation in umbilical supply pressure. the bailout bottle will drain very quickly, particularly
if the diver is deep.

Immediately notify topside, check to insure your

44 © ⅯⅯⅩⅢ Kirby Morgan Dive Systems, Inc. All rights reserved. Document # 130311001
 SuperLite® 17B

umbilical is clear and return to the diving station us- 3.10.4 Demand Regulator Free Flow
ing the emergency breathing supply. Avoid making If the demand regulator free flows, adjust the knob in
a rapid ascent if at all possible. (clockwise) until it stops. If the free flow cannot be
stopped, the dive should be aborted. Even if there is
Once at the surface, or inside the bell, the diver may no serious problem to the diver, the dive should be
remove the helmet if needed. Never ditch the helmet aborted and the problem with the regulator corrected.
underwater unless conditions absolutely require that.
3.11 Post Dive Procedures
3.11.1 Removing the Equipment
After the diver is well clear of the water they may
remove the helmet. If the diver is working out of a
DANGER stage they must not remove the helmet until the stage
Rapid ascent is dangerous. It can lead is on deck.
to air embolism or decompression sick-
ness. Air/gas embolism can cause im- 3.11.2 Removing the Helmet
mediate loss of consciousness and/or On the SuperLite®-17 A/B, the tender must first
death. Even on a no decompression dive, remove the safety pin before you can remove the
a rapid ascent may cause decompres- helmet. Slide the pin out and away from the latch
sion sickness. A diver must only make a catch. Release the yoke safety strap.
rapid ascent when they are in immediate
danger of death by drowning or asphyxi- The tender should assist the diver by pulling out on
ation. the pull pin knob on the latch catch assembly. This
will allow the let the yoke to fall away. Next grab the
handle on the neck clamp assembly and pull outwards
DANGER away from the helmet, until the handle is in front of
Ditching the helmet underwater must be
the diver’s face. This action will break the seal of
avoided. If the diver ditches the helmet
the neck dam around the base of the helmet and the
underwater they will not be able to see.
neck dam and clamp will fall away from the bottom
In many instances, even if the air sup-
front of the helmet.
ply is interrupted, topside will be able to
get it back on line quickly. Do not ditch
While having the diver tilt their head back, reach
the helmet underwater unless you are
behind the back of the helmet and lift the rear hinge
completely out of breathing gas and it is
tab off the alignment sleeve in the back of the helmet.
impossible to return to the surface due
to entanglement of your equipment or
When you’re wearing the helmet, once the neck
similar circumstances.
clamp is open, you must reach underneath the front
of the helmet and loosen the chin strap that holds the
helmet in position. Then, lift the helmet over your
head using both hands, one on either side of the hel-
met to support its weight.

WARNING
Never remove the diving helmet while you
are in the stage. If you fall out of the stage
with the helmet off but still attached to
your harness it may be very difficult to
swim. Drowning may result.

© ⅯⅯⅩⅢ Kirby Morgan Dive Systems, Inc. All rights reserved. Document # 130311001 45
SuperLite® 17B

After the helmet is removed, the tender can take it 3.11.3 Storage of the Helmet Between
from the diver and carefully lay it aside, on a soft Dives
surface, such as a coil of the umbilical. The helmet should be maintained per the daily main-
tenance section in Chapter 6. Also, check the Dive
Next, reach in and spread the neck dam, pulling Lab post dive checklist A2.4 at www.divelab.com.
against the sides of the neck dam with the palms
of both hands. Lift the neck dam over your head. If the helmet is not going to be used for a period of
Slide the yoke backwards away from your neck to time, the head cushion, should be removed. The head
remove it. cushion should be dried and replaced in the hat before
storage. The regulator adjustment knob should be
The diver’s harness and EGS cylinder is then re- unscrewed all the way out (counterclockwise) until
moved. The emergency gas supply hose may be the next dive.
disconnected while the diver leaves the helmet on
or while they hold the hat after removal. The quick When the helmet is completely dry, or the diver is
disconnect makes this procedure very easy. ready to leave the job, the helmet should be stored
in the carrying bag to protect it.

If the head cushion becomes wet it may be dried out

by removing it from the helmet, squeezing excess
water out, and letting the head cushion hang dry or
putting it in a clothes drier on air dry only.

WARNING
Use only the air dry setting when drying
head cushion foam in a drier. Use of a
higher setting could cause the foam to
melt or start a fire.

Once you have removed the helmet, spread the neck

dam to remove it.

46 © ⅯⅯⅩⅢ Kirby Morgan Dive Systems, Inc. All rights reserved. Document # 130311001