Nitrox (EANx): Dive Longer & Safer
Your comprehensive guide to Enriched Air Nitrox (EANx)—what it is, its benefits, and why we at Manta Dive Komodo offer free Nitrox for all certified divers.
Introduction
Enriched Air Nitrox (often called EANx or simply “Nitrox”) has become increasingly popular among recreational and professional divers. By increasing the percentage of oxygen in your scuba tank and reducing the percentage of nitrogen, Nitrox offers extended bottom times, shorter surface intervals, and can even help reduce post-dive fatigue. At Manta Dive Komodo, we proudly offer free Nitrox fills for all certified divers, ensuring you get the most out of every dive in Komodo’s rich underwater world.
What Exactly Is Nitrox (EANx)?
Nitrox is a breathing gas that contains a higher fraction of oxygen than standard air (which is about 21% oxygen and 79% nitrogen). You’ll often see blends like EAN32 or EAN36, indicating 32% or 36% oxygen respectively. The reduced nitrogen content helps slow the rate at which nitrogen accumulates in your body’s tissues during a dive.
Common Nitrox Mixes
Recreational Nitrox blends vary, but these are the most common:
- EAN32: 32% oxygen, 68% nitrogen
- EAN36: 36% oxygen, 64% nitrogen
These blends strike a balance between providing extended no-stop times and maintaining safe depth limits. In Komodo’s typical dive profiles (rarely exceeding 30m/100ft on recreational dives), these mixes are extremely popular.
Key Benefits of Diving with Nitrox
1. Extended Bottom Times
One of the major advantages of Nitrox is that you can stay underwater longer without exceeding your no-decompression limits. The lower nitrogen percentage means it accumulates in your tissues more slowly, allowing you more time at depth.
2. Shorter Surface Intervals
Because there is less nitrogen in your system, your required surface interval between dives can be shorter. This is perfect in a place like Komodo where you may be doing multiple dives per day to explore the park’s diverse sites.
3. Reduced Fatigue
Many divers report feeling less tired after diving Nitrox compared to diving air, especially on multi-dive days. While this can be subjective, it’s commonly noted and supported by the lower nitrogen load in your body.
4. Potential Safety Margin
If you dive Nitrox but follow air tables or use an air computer setting, you effectively increase your safety cushion because you’re absorbing less nitrogen than your table or computer assumes.
How to Dive with Nitrox Safely
Despite its benefits, Nitrox does introduce new considerations, primarily the risk of oxygen toxicity at depth. As oxygen percentage goes up, the Maximum Operating Depth (MOD) decreases.
- MOD for EAN32: ~33m/110ft at a pO2 of 1.4 ATA
- MOD for EAN36: ~28m/95ft at a pO2 of 1.4 ATA
This is why you must always analyze your tank’s oxygen content, label it, and confirm your dive plan respects the correct MOD. At Manta Dive Komodo, our staff will help you verify your Nitrox mix before every dive.
Who Can Dive Nitrox?
You need an Enriched Air Nitrox certification from a recognized training agency (like PADI, SSI, NAUI, etc.). This specialty covers how to measure oxygen content, set your dive computer, and respect MOD limits. If you’re not yet certified, we can arrange a Nitrox course in Komodo so you can start enjoying the benefits right away.
Why Dive Nitrox with Manta Dive Komodo?
At Manta Dive Komodo, we believe in maximizing both enjoyment and safety for our guests. Here’s why choosing to dive Nitrox with us is a no-brainer:
- Free Nitrox for Certified Divers: Save money and bottom time!
- Professional Staff: Our guides are experienced in planning optimal dive profiles for Nitrox divers.
- Top-notch Equipment: We maintain reliable analyzers and high-quality tanks.
- Dive Planning Expertise: We’ll help you pick the right blend and plan your day.
Conclusion
Enriched Air Nitrox (EANx) is a proven method for extending bottom times, reducing fatigue, and maximizing safety margins on your dives. If you’re already certified, we offer free Nitrox at Manta Dive Komodo. Not certified yet? Our team is ready to guide you through a Nitrox course.
