[PSUBS-MAILIST] Piping Advice

[James Frankland <jamesf@guernseysubmarine.com>]

Hi all,

 

Im almost finished painting my sub.  What a chore.  Still, it looks good to finally see it taking shape.  Anyway, after that im onto the pipework and i'd like to ask people's advice\opinon.

 

This is of course the K350 design page 013 on the standard plans.

 

The plans show only 1 scuba tank connected to blow all 3 tanks.  I was under the impression that most people carried at least 2.  I was thinking of modifying the setup to have 2 tanks, 1 to blow aft and variable tank and 1 for forward. 

 

Am i right in assuming the VBT 1\2 inch pipe also serves as a vent?

 

On the variable vent pipe where it exits the sub forward of the tower, why are there 2 identical valves?   I assume 1 is to operate normally, and the other as the emergency shut off connected directly to the pipe nipple?  Same with the depth gauge?  (Which i dont have incidentally).

 

Anyway, is this configuration the best way to go about things?  Are there any alternatives that people have used that may be better?  Im going to use the swagelock system and will of course use SS instead of copper as it calls for.

 

I notice snoopy has some sort of machined manifold.  Maybe this is better?

 

Any suggestions from people before i pick up the phone to swagelock?

 

Kind Regards

James