Size Matters, for SMB's
Understanding Surface Marker Buoys: Size, Visibility, and Inflation Guide
Why SMB Size Matters for Diver Safety
Your Surface Marker Buoy’s primary purpose is ensuring dive boats can spot you from a distance. However, many divers don’t realize how size affects visibility over distance.
Inflation Techniques and Surface Performance
Underwater Inflation Facts
- Full inflation underwater is possible and often beneficial
- Inflating at 10m depth provides optimal results – air expands to double volume at surface
- Partial submersion at surface is normal and necessary for stability
Surface Visibility Mathematics
- An 1.8m SMB appears only 1cm tall from 100 meters away
- This reduction follows the Inverse Square Law
- Real-world testing confirms these visibility calculations
Choosing the Right SMB
Key Selection Tips
- Avoid selecting “small” SMBs
- Choose larger sizes for maximum visibility
- Remember: A smaller SMB defeats the safety purpose
Note: SMB = Surface Marker Buoy, DSMB = Delayed Surface Marker Buoy
Tagged safety, signalling, SMB.