Have just returned from diving in Antarctica with the New Zealand =
programme.
We use Poseidon Odins and have the ice flake "problem".  It's an =
acceptable irritation.
The ice flakes come from condensation on the metal valve tube which =
supports the=20
pilot valve.  The ice flakes melt as soon as they land in your throat so =
the risk of gagging
is very low. =20
We've had a few lp and hp hoses blow.  This is always following exposure =
to the low air temps
when the pressure has been off and then quickly turned on.  It's just a =
matter of education.  Some
divers are a bit slow to catch on. =20
I've used both the Odin and Cyclon second stages down there with no =
problem.  The main=20
resistance to using Poseidon lies in the feature which makes them so =
good in the cold - the anti freeze caps.  Casual divers handle them =
roughly and rupture the rubber cap.  The antifreeze leaks out
causing a mess.  Despite the rupture we've had no free flows so =
sufficient antifreeze must=20
remain inside.=20
Rob Robbins reported that the American programme is now using the =
Sherwood reg as a standard. =20
They have a pool of gear and are happy with the Sherwood. My experience =
has been that of
a completely frozen up Magnum Blizzard so I am yet to be convinced and I =
have access to
plenty of Poseidons (and I have been a Poseidon fan since 1974).

This year we actually dived in Lake Vanda which 4 C is quite temperate.  =
We used wintertised
Poseidon first stages and Interspiro full face masks.  No problems.


My 2c on this issue.

Steve Mercer
Diving Safety Officer
Antarctica New Zealand.
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