Megaladon Radial Scrubber Review

• Depths

From 10m to 180m (2 to 19ATA)

• Temperature

All the dives I have done with the radial scrubber were in warm tropical waters, with temperature ranging from 22C at depth up to 30C in the shallows.

• Absorbent Material

Different brands of Sodalime were used, mainly Sofnolime 797, Grace SodaSorb and Draeger DiveSorb. According to Leon Scamahorn, this scrubber (7.5lb/3.4kg) was tested at ANSTI and the HSE lab in the UK. The canister was tested compared to the axial scrubber and to different other scrubbers on the market, and the final result was far beyond expectations for WOB and duration. I have some of the results but I’m sure the all test results will be released when appropriate.

• Level of Exertion

Most of the dives have been done at a normal swim pace. Nevertheless a high level of exertion was necessary during some of the dives, mainly because of the current I found at some places!

• Overall Performance

I’m extremely satisfied with the radial scrubber. The performances are extremely good and the attempt to get a scrubber breakthrough was unsuccessful even after more than 11 hours on the scrubber (although absolutely nor recommended!). One loop flooding has been simulated by voluntarily removing the mouthpiece and let a significant amount of water entering the loop. After having drained the loop, breathing has been resumed and maintain during 20 minutes with no noticeable effect on the WOB !!

The packing process is quite time consuming. Unfortunately 10minutes is the minimum you can expect to properly pack this radial canister. Pour it by thirds and tap on the sides to settle.
When near the top, use a spoon to keep topping it off. You’ll probably top it off 3-5 times until it stops settling. The spoon is also useful to even out the granules on the top and pre-pack them a little bit to close the lid more easily.

It’s important to avoid channelling around the top of the canister. Make sure after you have put the lid on to shake the scrubber near your ear to listen for any granules that are moving around. It has to be packed like concrete. Settling must not be possible by vibration from transporting in a car or a boat.

Be sure the O ring is clean before closing the lid and no loose granules are in the O ring area or under the flange. If crushed granules get in this area, it will become very difficult to remove the lid later. That’s the reason why your second tool is a small toothbrush to clean any dust that could accumulate on the top.

All in all, the radial scrubber is simply great and the small disadvantages (price, packing process) are really outweighed by the clear benefits.