Helmets and Masks

DECA Recommends...
How to Select a Diving Helmet or Mask
As any diver knows, your helmet or mask is your
most important piece of life support equipment. Selecting the right head gear for you is critically important to
your safety and performance on the job.
You probably had the chance to try several
different diving helmets and masks while you were
attending military or commercial diving school. You
may have developed a favorite model while you were
there. If so, then your choice of which helmet or mask to
buy will be simple. However, if you are uncertain of
which helmet or mask is right for you, consider the
following items:
Comfort: How well does it fit your head?
Balance: How is the helmet or mask weighted? Is it possible to add
accessory weights to trim the balance to your preference?
Quality of construction: How well is it built?
Breathing Performance: Has the breathing system been tested and approved
by independent testing labs, such as the Navy Experimental Diving Unit?
Documentation: Does it come with a comprehensive service and repair manual?
Availability of spares: Is it in widespread use so that spares are available in
remote locations?
Reputation of the manufacturer: How long has the manufacturer been
building this type of equipment?
Interface with other dive gear: If youre buying a helmet, are yokes available
for mating to dry suits?
Accessories: Are accessories, such as hot water shrouds and double exhaust
kits, readily available for different job demands?
Dive Environment: If you work in cold, deep, or polluted water, or if you work
construction, you would probably be best served by selecting a helmet. If you do shallow
diving, inspection, or warm water diving a mask may be a more economical choice.
Price: How does the price compare to similar products with the same
features?
The staff at DECA is familiar with almost every diving helmet available. If you have
questions about the performance of a particular helmet or mask, give us a call so we can help you
with your decision.

Helmets and Masks

Kirby Morgan SuperLite 27 Helmet

DECA

Through the years, Diving Systems International has been a leader in innovations that have modernized the commercial
diving industry. Constant research and
monitoring of the industry's needs have
helped DSI develop products that make the
commercial diver's job safer, easier and
more productive. Continuing in this long
tradition, DSI proudly introduces the next
generation in helmet design, the Kirby
Morgan SuperLite 27 diving helmet!

For exploded view see page 30

At first glance the SuperLite 27 bears a striking

resemblance to our world renowned industry standard, the SuperLite 17 A/B. A second look reveals not
only refinements to current designs but inspired changes
that make this helmet something the industry will be using well
into the next century!

The most noticeable change is in the Helmet Neck Ring and latching
system. An all new Helmet Neck Ring design allows for an evenly distributed weighting of the
helmet. The machined brass Helmet Ring houses the Latch Catches and provides protection for the
bottom end of the helmet.
The diver is also provided with an externally adjustable chin support. This support, along with
the adjustable neck pad on the locking collar, gives the diver a comfortable, secure, custom tailored
fit in the helmet.
A quick change communications module, available in two different configurations, allows for
easy, efficient maintenance of the communications in the helmet. The Helmet is available in the
umbilical over the shoulder, "B" configuration only.
In addition to these new innovations, the SuperLite 27 has all the time tested features that have
made the U.S Navy approved SuperLite 17 a worldwide industry standard. The SuperLite 27 is
the product of years of research and testing. It has been designed to give the working diver a reliable,
and extremely comfortable helmet. Options, at additional cost, include special colors such as red,
black, royal blue, navy blue, mint green, smoke white, and white. Hardware may also be specially
ordered in either all brass or all chrome.

Diving Equipment Company of America

Ph (805) 564-1923 FAX (805) 962-3120 www.Decadiving.com

Email: decadive@aol.com

Cat. #2-99

DECA

SL-27 Specifications

ERLIT
UP

KIR

27

BY

AN

The helmet shell is hand laid up glass fiber reinforced

thermal setting polyester with carbon fiber reinforcement at
key points for added durability. It is light and highly
impact resistant, and provides a heat/cold barrier as
well as being an excellent electrical nonconductor.

Fiberglass and Carbon Fiber Reinforced Shell

MOR

Silicone Oral Nasal

The new "universal" Silicone Oral Nasal fits the
SL-17 & 27 helmets as well as the KMB18 & 28
Band Masks. It is made of a superior silicone
material which is hypo-allergenic and has a
longer work life than standard latex.

Improved
Head Cushion

Quick Change Modular

Communications System

The Head Cushion gives the helmet a secure,

well balanced feel as well as excellent thermal
protection during long work periods.

Because the module is easily removed from

the helmet, repair or replacement of communications parts is quick and
trouble free. It comes in either of
two different configurations, an
optional male waterproof connector or the standard two binding post connection

Port Weight
provides better balance
and comfort, and an
accessory
mounting area.

Locking Collar Latch System

The latch catches consist of two sealed pull pins which are pulled forward to
release the neck collar and neck dam locking system.
Even when the latches are released, the neck dam
maintains a positive seal and will not allow the seal
to be broken until the collar actually clears the
diver's shoulders, thus preventing any flooding
of the helmet.

Adjustable Neck Pad

The adjustable neck pad is made from a scuff
resistant elastomer and, in conjunction with
the swing catch, provides protection for the
bottom of the Helmet.
Order No. Description
500-040 SuperLite-27 w/ com. posts
500-041 SuperLite-27 male waterproof conn.
525-019
O-Ring Kit
525-309
Regulator Rebuild Kit
525-311
Side Block Rebuild Kit
525-333
Spares Kit, SuperLite-27
525-341
Overseas Spares Kit, SuperLite-27
515-015
Comm. Assy. w/Posts
515-016
Comm. Assy. w/male waterproof conn.

Externally Adjustable
Chin Strap
The externally adjustable chin support, along
with the adjustable neck pad on the locking
collar gives the diver a comfortable, secure fit
when wearing the helmet.
Neck Dam Swing Catch
The Swing Catch rotates out of the way to
allow the neck dam assembly to be unsealed
from the helmet. This simplifies getting out of
the helmet.

Order No. SuperLite-27 Accessories

100-027 Operations/Maintenance Manual
500-901 Helmet/Mask Bag
510-504 Neoprene Neck Dam (standard)
510-500 Latex Neck Dam (optional)
510-682 Head Cushion, SL-27
510-683 Chin Cuschion, SL-27
525-100 Hot Water Shroud
525-120 Double Exhaust Kit
525-403 Welding Lens Assembly
525-620 Regulator Tool Kit w/Pouch

Diving Equipment Company of America

Cat. #2-99 Ph (805) 564-1923 FAX (805) 962-3120 www.Decadiving.com Email: decadive@aol.com

Helmets and Masks

Kirby Morgan SuperLite 17A/B

DECA

For SL-17 exploded view see page 32

For MK21 exploded view see page 36

The SuperLite-17A/B Commercial Diver's Helmet represents years of design effort. The Specifications meet and in most cases, far surpass the requirements set forth by many governmental agencies. This
adherence to high quality and proven work performance led to the SuperLite-17 (designated MK-21)
being chosen as the U.S. Navy standard diving helmet, as well as numerous Navies around the globe.
This same design has also become the working standard of the commercial diving industry worldwide.
Many thousands of underwater hours have proved this design to be dependable and comfortable.
The helmet system consists of two pieces: the neck dam-yoke and the helmet. The diver slips on the
angled neck dam with the attached yoke hinging into place. The neck clamp is then slipped onto the
helmet and locked. The lock system not only seals the neck dam to the helmet but also secures the front
of the yoke.
The Side Block Assembly can be configured to receive the umbilical either from the front of the diver
(17-A) or over the shoulder (17-B shown above).
The SuperLite-17 provides a system for prevention of accidental removal, with the standard pull pin.
It offers comprehensive head protection, an improved demand breathing system for gas economy,
antiflooding features, rapid emplacement, a neck dam clamp that mechanically breaks a low-pressure
lock, and a new angled neck dam (this new angled neck dam seats the helmet more comfortably,
especially when working in the face down position).
An optional Double Exhaust System (DSI Part # 525-102), helps to prevent backflow of unwanted
contaminants into the helmet. This system has been used successfully for diving in biologically
contaminated environments. CAUTION : Before attempting any diving in any type of contaminated
environment, a complete top side course in hazardous materials emergencies should be completed. For more
complete information see the book "Diving in High-Risk Environments" by Steven M. Barsky.

Diving Equipment Company of America

Ph (805) 564-1923 FAX (805) 962-3120 www.Decadiving.com

Email: decadive@aol.com

Cat. #2-99

DECA

SL-17 Specifications

Steady Flow Valve provides a backup air source

into the helmet. The air/gas flow is through the air
train, across the faceplate into the oral nasal mask.

Air Train diffuses the incoming breathing air/gas

onto the face plate to defog the lens.

Emergency Valve provides the emergency

breathing gas to the diver.

Silicone Oral Nasal Mask is made of a superior

silicone material which is hypo-allergenic and
has a longer work life than standard latex.

Gas Supply Non-Return

Valve prevents loss of gas
pressure in the event of umbilical damage, preventing
a "squeeze".
Low Pressure Plug is
removed and replaced
by the suit inflation hose
when the diver wears a
dry suit.
Neck Dam/Yoke Assembly secures the helmet to the diver's head and
positively prevents accidental removal. The
new angled neck dam helps the helmet ride
better when working face down.
Communications Connections can be either bare
wire posts as shown or a waterproof connector. The
waterproof type is recommended when a "round
robin" or diver/tender both mics "on" communications system is used.
Order No. Description
500-010
500-011
500-005
500-006
525-301
525-309
525-311
525-317
525-325

SuperLite 17B Helmet Complete

SuperLite 17B Helmet w / Male W.P. Conn.
SuperLite-17A Helmet Complete
SuperLite-17A Helmet w / Male W.P. Conn.
O-Ring Kit
Regulator Rebuild Kit
Side Block Kit
Helmet Spares Kit
Overseas Spares Kit

Options:
Colors: Red, Black, Royal Blue, Navy Blue, Mint Green,
Smoke White (light grey) and white.
All brass or all chrome hardware

Nose Block Device allows the diver

to block the nose to equalize
sinuses and ears.
SuperFlow
Demand Regulator provides
easy breathing for hard work.
Exhaust Whisker Bubble Deflector keeps the exhaust
bubbles away from the diver's
vision.
Latch Catch Mechanism locks the neck
clamp and yoke in place.
Water Exhaust automatically keeps water
drained from the helmet.

Ordering Information
SuperLite-17A/B Accessories
100-001 Operations/Maint. Manual
500-901 Helmet/Mask Bag
510-530 Cold Water Neck Dam
510-533 Draw String Neck Dam
525-100 Hot Water Shroud
525-102 Double Exhaust Kit
525-130 Front Weight Kit
525-403 Welding Lens Assembly
515-030 Communications set
525-620 Tool Kit w/Pouch
225-020 Quick Disconnect Whip
305-161 Bail Out First Stage
200-017 Over Pressure Relief Valve

Diving Equipment Company of America

Cat. #2-99 Ph (805) 564-1923 FAX (805) 962-3120 www.Decadiving.com Email: decadive@aol.com

Helmets and Masks

DECA

Kirby Morgan SuperLite 17K

The SuperLite 17K Commercial Diver's Helmet represents what we at Diving Systems
consider to be the pinnacle of current diving
helmet design. The 17K takes the best design features of our world famous SuperLite
17 A/B and blends in many of the advanced
design features of the SuperLite 27. Add in
some finely tuned balance refinements and
you have the ultimate diving helmet. Exemplifying our adherence to the highest quality
and proven superior work performance, the
SuperLite 17K is destined to become the new
working standard of the commercial diving
industry worldwide.

For exploded view see page 34

The SuperLite 17K incorporates the innovative

locking system and communications system of the
SuperLite 27 onto a larger SuperLite 17 size fiberglass shell. It also features the large tube SuperFlow
350 adjustable demand regulator which provides an
easier breathing gas flow during peak work output.

The helmet consists of two major assemblies: the helmet shell/helmet ring assembly and the neck dam/
neck ring assembly. The chrome plated, machined brass helmet ring houses the latch catches and
provides protection for the bottom end of the helmet. This assembly also mounts an externally adjustable
chin support. This support, along with the adjustable neck pad on the locking collar, gives the diver a
secure, custom fit. This custom fit and balance seats the helmet comfortably for long periods of time
even when working in the face down position.
A quick change communications module, available with either bare wire posts or a waterproof
connector, allows for easy, efficient maintenance of the helmet's communications.
The 17K is configured to receive the umbilical over the shoulder, in the "B" configuration.
An optional Double Exhaust System (DSI Part # 525-102) helps to prevent back flow of unwanted
contaminants into the helmet. This system has been used successfully for diving in biologically
contaminated environments.
CAUTION: Before attempting any diving in any type of contaminated environment, a complete top side course
in hazardous materials emergencies should be completed. For more complete information see the book "Diving
in High-Risk Environments" by Steven M. Barsky.

Diving Equipment Company of America

Ph (805) 564-1923 FAX (805) 962-3120 www.Decadiving.com

Email: decadive@aol.com

Cat. #2-99

SL-17K Specifications

DECA
The Helmet Shell is hand laid glass fiber reinforced
thermal setting polyester (fiberglass) with carbon fiber
reinforcement at key points for added durability. It is
light and highly impact resistant, and provides
a heat/cold barrier as well as being an
excellent electrical nonconductor

Air Train diffuses the incoming breathing air/gas onto

the face plate to defog the lens.
Silicone Oral Nasal Mask is made of a superior silicone
material which is hypo-allergenic and has a
longer work life than latex.

Steady Flow Valve provides an

additional flow of air into the
helmet for ventilation and
defogging.

Nose Block Device allows the diver

to block the nose to equalize ears.
Side & Top Weights bring
unsurpassed balance to the
helmet along with accessory
mounting areas.

Auxiliary Valve
supplies backup breathing
gas to the diver.

SuperFlow 350
Demand Regulator
provides adjustable, easy
breathing for hard work.

Gas Supply Non-Return

Valve prevents loss of gas
pressure in the event of
umbilical damage, preventing a
"squeeze".
Locking Collar Latches
The latch catches consist of two sealed pull
pins which are pulled forward to release the
neck collar and neck dam locking system. Even after
the latches are released, the neck dam maintains a
positive seal until the collar actually clears the diver's
shoulders, thus preventing any flooding of the helmet.
Adjustable Neck Pad Assembly The adjustable neck
pad is made from a scuff resistant elastomer and, in
conjunction with the swing catch, secures the helmet
to the diver's head with a comfortable, custom fit.
Part No.
500-050
500-051
515-023
515-024
525-019
525-309
525-311
525-347
525-349

Exhaust Whisker keeps the exhaust bubbles away from the diver's
vision.
Neck Dam Swing Catch
The Swing Catch rotates out of the way to allow the
neck dam assembly to be unsealed from the helmet.
This simplifies removal of the helmet.
Quick Change Modular Communications, in either
bare wire posts or waterproof connector, are easily
removed from the helmet, making repair or replacement
quick and trouble free.

Description
SuperLite 17K Helmet w/ bare wire posts
SuperLite 17K Helmet w / Male W.P. Conn.
Comm. Assy. w/Posts
Comm. Assy. w/male waterproof conn.
O-Ring Kit
Regulator Rebuild Kit
Side Block Kit
Helmet Spares Kit
Overseas Spares Kit

SuperLite 17K Accessories

500-901 Helmet/Mask Bag
510-628 Neoprene Neck Dam (standard)
510-631 Latex Neck Dam (optional)
525-100 Hot Water Shroud
525-403 Welding Lens Assembly
525-620 Regulator Tool Kit w/Pouch
525-102 Double Exhaust Kit
525-330 One Way Valve Kit
305-161 Bail Out First Stage
200-017 Over Pressure Relief Valve

Diving Equipment Company of America

Cat. #2-99 Ph (805) 564-1923 FAX (805) 962-3120 www.Decadiving.com Email: decadive@aol.com

Helmets and Masks

Kirby Morgan KMB-18A/B Band Mask

DECA

For exploded view see page 38

The Kirby Morgan Band Mask KMB 18 A/B (previously HeliOx-18 or DSI-18) can be used in deep mixed
gas diving as well as shallow water diving. The SuperFlow demand regulator provides low inhalation resistance
and high gas flow letting the diver breathe easier and work harder with less exertion.
The communications connection can be either a waterproof connector or bare wire posts. Waterproof type is
required when a "round robin", or diver/tender "both mics on" comm system is used.
The Side Block Assembly can be configured to receive the umbilical either from the front of the diver (18-A)
or over the shoulder (18-B shown above ) The mask frame is made of hand laid up fiberglass, which provides
a heat/cold barrier as well as being an excellent electrical nonconductor. The head harness is neoprene rubber,
resistant to tearing. The hood provides pockets for the earphones, warmth for the divers head and attaches to
the mask frame with welded stainless steel bands.
Ordering Information
Order No.

Description

Order No.

Description

500-020

KMB 18A Band Mask Complete

500-025

KMB 18B Band Mask Complete

500-021

KMB 18A Band Mask w / Male W.P. Conn.

500-026

KMB 18B Band Mask w / Male W.P. Conn.

525-303

O-Ring Kit

525-303

O-Ring Kit

525-309

Regulator Rebuild Kit

525-309

Regulator Rebuild Kit

525-311

Side Block Rebuild Kit

525-311

Side Block Rebuild Kit

525-319

Mask Spares Kit

525-319

Mask Spares Kit

525-327

Overseas Spares Kit

525-327

Overseas Spares Kit

Diving Equipment Company of America

Ph (805) 564-1923 FAX (805) 962-3120 www.Decadiving.com

Email: decadive@aol.com

Cat. #2-99

DECA

Kirby Morgan KMB-28B Band Mask

Shown with
optional
Head Protector

For exploded view see page 38

The Kirby Morgan Band Mask 28B, (KMB-28B) is the latest in the Band Mask series developed by Morgan
at Diving Systems International. The KMB-28B (shown with optional KMB 18/28 head protector) is very
similar to the KMB-18. Most parts on the KMB-18B are interchangeable with the KMB-28B.
The main difference between the 18 and 28 is the material of the mask frame itself. The KMB-18 has a hand
laid fiberglass frame (yellow) while the KMB-28B frame is an extremely durable injection molded plastic
(black). The relative ease of production of the "28" frame accounts for the lower cost and quicker delivery
of this mask . Other differences include: 1) The main exhaust body of the "28" is part of the frame itself and
uses a #545-041 main exhaust cover 2) no comfort insert is required on the "28" 3) the main exhaust cover
and face port differ from those on the "18".

Ordering Information
Order No.
Description
500-028 KMB-28B Band Mask Complete
500-029

KMB-28B w/Male W.P. Conn.

525-303

O-Ring Kit

525-309

Regulator Rebuild Kit

525-311

Side Block Rebuild Kit

525-319

Mask Spares Kit

525-327

Overseas Spares Kit

KMB-18 and KMB-28 Accessories

100-002 Operations/Maint. Manual
525-620 Regulator Tool Kit with Pouch
525-403 Welding Lens Assembly
500-901 Mask/Helmet Bag
520-010 Head Protector (optional)
525-100 Hot Water Shroud
510-510 Hood & Face Seal, Deluxe
255-020 Quick Disconnect Whip

Diving Equipment Company of America

Cat. #2-99 Ph (805) 564-1923 FAX (805) 962-3120 www.Decadiving.com Email: decadive@aol.com

Helmets and Masks

Kirby Morgan EXO Full Face Mask

DECA

For exploded view see page 25

The EXO Full Face Mask was designed for both surface supplied and scuba diving. By enclosing the divers
eyes, nose and mouth, the EXO permits nearly normal speech when used in conjunction with most wireless, and
all hardwire underwater communication systems. Its light weight design allows divers to work long dives with no
jaw or neck fatigue. The EXO-26 Original Model has automatic defogging of the wide, tempered glass face port.
All models have a modular communications design that permits rapid and simple maintenance. An optional Head
Protector gives added protection in dangerous diving environments. The ear equalization device is a nose block
which is adjustable to several different heights, fitting a wide variety of noses and faces. The oral nasal in the
Standard and Balanced models helps keep the CO2 levels to a minimum and improves breathing and
communications.
There are three models of EXO Full Face Mask.
The ORIGINAL EXO-26 is our original design with automatic defogging, no oral nasal or nose block (optional
kit available)
The STANDARD EXO-26 design now incorporates an oral nasal mask and the new nose block /equalizer. These
design upgrades provide the diver with clearer communications and easier equalization. There is also a retro fit
kit (325-090) for converting original style EXOs to the new oral nasal design.
The CE approved BALANCED REGULATOR EXO-BR was developed to meet strict new European CE
requirements. It meets and surpasses EN 250 requirements for regulator performance. The EXO-BR frame is the
same DSI yellow as the standard SuperLite Helmets and KMB 18 Bandmasks.
The EXO-BR Balanced Regulator helps reduce the work of breathing for the diver. The regulator balances the
intermediate air pressure against the valve sealing pressure inside the regulator. This enables the regulator to
instantly adjust to changes in line pressure. The Balanced Regulator provides improved breathing and is adjustable
for a wide range of intermediate pressures between 100 PSI - 230 PSI.

10

Diving Equipment Company of America

Ph (805) 564-1923 FAX (805) 962-3120 www.Decadiving.com

Email: decadive@aol.com

Cat. #2-99

DECA

Specifications

EXOskeleton Frame: A strong injection molded plastic

Faceplate Lens: Tempered glass for strength and

external frame which gives the head harness an even

pull completely around the mask seal. The EXOskeleton
does not touch the divers face. It
is suspended
just slightly off the face to hold
the communication and breathing equipment in place without discomfort.

minimum fogging. A strong plastic frame surrounds the

glass to seal on the rubber mask seal.

Mask Seal, Rubber:

Consists of the full rubber body
of the mask. It is a soft neoprene
that seals comfortably to the divers
face. The EXOskeleton is used to
hold this soft rubber seal in place on
the divers face for a solid seal.

TEMPERED

Head Harness: A pull through fixed

buckle type with an automatic locking feature. Quick release buckles are
featured on each rugged, double wide
strap.

SYSTEMS I
NT
NG
N

'L

DI

VI

Swivel, Air In:

.A
.

SA

Uses standard SCUBA threads for

incoming breathing air. A regulator hose
NT
S
AB
U.
ARBARA CA./
is supplied with each EXO Mask, the
swivel comes on all Original and Standard EXO Masks.

Regulator Adjustment Knob:

Provides demand regulator adjustment
for a wide range of incoming air pressure. In addition, it can serve as a steady
flow valve. While using surface supplied
air when conservation is not a factor, some
divers prefer a slight steady flow.

Communications Module:
The entire module unscrews and is removed from the inside of the mask. Inside the module is a junction box for mating all
the wiring for communications. All models of the EXO Mask are available with several different communications
configurations. First is the basic mask with no communications. The modular design allows communications to be easily
retrofitted. Configurations differ with the type of communications systems installed. When using an umbilical, the Bare Wire
Communications Posts module serves as the hardwire attachment point for a simple two wire communications system. The
Four Pin Male Waterproof (W.P.) Connector option (marsh marine type) allows for four wire/ round robin communications
when diver to diver communication is desired. Both configurations include earphones and microphone. Wireless systems are
available through several different manufacturers.

Ordering Information
Order #
300-026
300-027
300-028
300-040
300-041
300-042
300-036
300-037
300-038

DESCRIPTION
EXO-26 Original, no comms
EXO-26 Original w/Posts
EXO-26 Original w/W.P. Conn
EXO-26 Standard, no comms
EXO-26 Standard w/Posts
EXO-26 Standard w/W.P. Conn
EXO-BR Balanced Reg./ no comms
EXO-BR Balanced Reg./ Posts
EXO-BR Balanced Reg./ W.P. Conn

Comm Accessories for Standard & BR

315-210 Comm Assembly w/posts
315-215 Comm Assembly w/4 pin male W.P. Con.

Accessories
Order No. Description
Original EXO-26
315-201 EXO Comm assembly w/posts
315-206 EXO Comm assembly w/4 pin male W.P.
325-635 EXO-26 Nose Block Kit
325-090 EXO-26 Oral Nasal Conversion
ALL Models
300-145 DSI Manifold Block, standard scuba fitting
300-150 DSI Manifold Block 02
300-155 DSI Manifold Block #6 JIC
325-630 EXO-26 Tool Kit w/Pouch
325-650 EXO Deluxe Tool Kit w/Pouch
325-025 EXO Face Cushion Kit
300-010 EXO Head Protector
100-026 Ops/Maintenance Manual - Original EXO
100-030 Ops/Maintenance Manua, EXO Std./BR
Standard and Original EXO-26
325-305 Regulator Rebuild Kit
325-307 Mask Spares Kit

Diving Equipment Company of America

Cat. #2-99 Ph (805) 564-1923 FAX (805) 962-3120 www.Decadiving.com Email: decadive@aol.com

11