Original U.S. Navy Vietnam War Era Type A3 Oxygen Breathing Apparatus Set in Transit Chest
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Original Items: Only One Set Available. In 1953, the Type A-3 OBA began to replace the Type A-2 OBA. It was a closed-circuit, self-contained gadget. Oxygen generated by chemicals in a canister could be inhaled for around 60 minutes, the effective time limit of the oxygen supply, independent of the surrounding atmosphere.
Head straps, a set of plastic eyepieces, a speaking diaphragm, and a rubber mouthpiece were all included with the Type A-3 OBA's rubber face piece. The back of the wearer's harness had a "D" ring in the center where a life-line could be attached. A timer with a bell that could be set in minutes prior to space arrival was visible to the user; it sounded for eight seconds to alert when the canister needed to be changed.
If necessary, personnel were able to shift canisters in a poisonous or smoke-filled environment. For an immediate source of oxygen, a quick-start chloride candle could be used, which was sufficient until the regular reaction began.
The Type A-3 OBA was designed to battle fires and penetrate a hazardous environment or a gas-filled compartment. It could even be utilized to work in partially flooded compartments, although the user had to be exceedingly cautious, especially if oil or fuel was present in the water. A major explosion could result from a mixture of oil or fuel with chemicals in the canister
The Type A-3 OBA served until the early 1970s, when it was superseded by the Type A-4 OBA, which is still in service today.
This genuine type A-3 apparatus is offered complete, even with the correct oxygen canisters and manual! All of this comes in the original transit chest, which measures approximately 24" x 16" x 11".
Please Note: This item is sold for collector and display purposes only. We make no guarantees regarding the functionality of the unit, which is over 40 years old now.
- This product is available for international shipping.
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