Closed-cycle protective breathing apparatus, commonly referred to as rebreathers, or CCBA provide trained aircrew members or ground personnel with eye and respiratory protection from toxic atmospheres.

Purpose:

The purpose of AIR825/11 is to describe the static and dynamic characteristics of closed circuit breathing apparatus. Considerable design consideration must be given to ensure conservation of, or removal of, vital respiratory gases in closed cycle breathing apparatus. Descriptions and illustrations are included that represent the basic flow paths of respiratory gases during operation. For more specific information on certain topics, references are also cited in the text, where applicable.

Field of Application:

While the concept of closed circuit breathing apparatus applies to numerous industrial activities, AIR825/11 was prepared with special interest in the aviation industry. Apparatus detailed in this document are representative of those governed by FAA Technical Standard Order (TSO)-C116 and AS8047, and which meet or exceed the minimum prescribed duration of 15 minutes. Appendix A provides schematic representation of common types of TSO certified CCBA available today.