How does it work? FAQ 10 questions and answers

The Hammar automatic inflator has a unique hydrostatic valve that works by the pressure difference between the inside of the stole and the outside. When the inflator is immersed in water by 10 cm, the hydrostatic valve opens and water will have access to a water sensitive element. This in turn releases a stainless steel spring mechanism, which pierces the CO2 cylinder.

 

Will the lifejacket inflate if the inflator gets wet or in humidity?

No - because it requires pressure on the hydrostatic valve to allow water ingress to activate. It can withstand spray, wave splash and high humidity without causing accidental inflation. Accidental inflation can cause accidents.

 

Will the CO2 cylinder corrode?

No - the cylinder is carried inside the inflatable stole and therefore away from the atmosphere and corrosive effects of salt water. How can I tell if the CO2 cylinder is leaking Quite easy - due to the cylinder being housed inside the inflatable stole, this will start to inflate if the cylinder leaks.

 

What about in extreme cold conditions? Will it ice-up thereby not inflating the lifejacket stole?

Extreme cold conditions will not affect the hydrostatic system. The cylinder is inside the stole and moisture cannot get in to form ice. Furthermore the CO2 does not have to enter through a valve to inflate the lifejacket.

 

How long does it take to inflate?

Once the inflator is activated, it will take no more than 4-5 seconds to full inflation. Extreme cold (-30°) can prolong inflation by 1-2 seconds.

 

 

What about servicing the hydrostatic inflator? How often and how much will it cost?

The hydrostatic inflator does not require servicing, therefore the cost is 0. The only time it will need to be serviced is:

  1. If it has been used i.e. inflated
  2. 5 years from manufacture, which is shown on the face of the valve.

To check that everything is OK:

  1. Is the indicator green?
  2.  Is the manual handle still attached? If yes, the lifejacket is charged and ready for use. Otherwise the lifejacket has to be re-charged.

Important - the lifejacket itself has to be serviced yearly according to the manufacturer's instructions. How easy is it to re-charge the lifejacket? Very simple. You can obtain a full re-charge kit from your dealer, that carries full step-by-step instructions.

 

If I want to try it in the water?

Easy - Inflate the lifejacket through the oral tube and go swimming. The counter pressure stops the hydrostatic valve from opening. Let the lifejacket dry and then deflate it in the normal way. In this way you save the inflator and the cylinder.

 

How much will the lifejacket inflator cost?

The Hammar lifejacket Inflator needs no service and has a 5 years expiry date, so it's very cost efficient. All these advantages will cost you a little more from the start, but it will actually save you money in the long run. Please contact your dealer for price information.