The device described in the manual is an Inflatable Personal Flotation Device (PFD) manufactured by Mustang Survival. Two models are covered: MD2014 (Manual Inflation Model) and MD2016 (Manual with Automatic Backup Inflation Model). These PFDs are designed to be more comfortable and less restrictive to wear than inherently buoyant PFDs, providing flotation only when inflated.
Function Description
The primary function of these inflatable PFDs is to provide buoyancy to keep the wearer's head above water, helping them stay face up and increasing their chances of survival and rescue in the water. They are designed to offer maximum mobility with minimum bulk when uninflated, appearing as a slim collar.
- MD2014 (Manual Inflation Model): This model can be inflated in two ways:
- Manual Inflation: By jerking a pull-tab firmly downward. The PFD should fully inflate within 5 seconds.
- Oral Inflation: By blowing into an oral inflation tube located under the wearer's left front panel. This method can be used if manual inflation fails or in non-emergency situations.
- MD2016 (Manual with Automatic Backup Inflation Model): This model offers three inflation methods:
- Automatic Inflation: Inflation occurs automatically within 10 seconds after the inflator is immersed in water. A water-sensing bobbin disintegrates, triggering a spring-loaded plunger that punctures the CO₂ cylinder.
- Manual Inflation: Similar to the MD2014, by jerking a pull-tab.
- Oral Inflation: Similar to the MD2014, by blowing into the oral inflation tube.
When inflated, the PFD uses carbon dioxide (CO₂) gas. A slight reduction in pressure may be observed after several hours, and oral inflation can be used to top up the PFD during prolonged immersion.
Important Technical Specifications
- USCG Approvals:
- Recreational: Type III Personal Flotation Device. Not approved for water skiing or other high-impact, high-speed activities. Users must be at least 16 years old. Not recommended for non-swimmers or weak swimmers.
- Commercial: Type V inflatable PFDs, approved ONLY WHEN WORN for use on uninspected commercial vessels less than 40 feet in length not carrying passengers for hire, as a substitute for a Type III PFD. Must be worn before getting underway and whenever above deck and not within an enclosed space to meet carriage requirements.
- Buoyancy: Provides a minimum of 22.5 lbs of buoyancy when inflated.
- Wearer Specifications: Designed for wearers over 16 years of age, with a chest range of 30-52 inches (76-132 cm) and weighing over 80 pounds (36 kg).
- Inflation Mechanism: Uses a CO₂ gas cylinder for primary inflation. The MD2016 model includes a water-sensing bobbin for automatic activation.
- Re-arm Kits: MA2014 re-arm kit contains a 24-gram replacement CO₂ cylinder/bayonet assembly. For MD2016, the kit also includes a bobbin.
Usage Features
- Donning: Worn like a jacket, with a front buckle and adjustable waist belt. The belt should fit below the rib cage for a tight personal fit.
- Safety Warning: Inflatable PFDs should not be worn under clothing, as inflation could be restricted or cause injury.
- Hypothermia Protection: PFDs can increase survival time in cold water by providing flotation without expending energy and offering some insulation. The manual recommends using the H.E.L.P. (Heat Escape Lessening Posture) position when wearing the PFD in cold water.
- Readiness Checklist: Before each use, users must check:
- Service indicator is green.
- No rips, tears, or holes; all seams securely sewn; fabric, straps, and hardware are strong.
- All Velcro™ and waist belt securely fastened.
- PFD is not twisted.
- Oral-inflation dust cap is in the stowed position.
- For MD2016, the bobbin is valid (purchased within the last three years or manufacturing date on bobbin is not older than three years).
- Airline Travel: One small CO₂ cylinder fitted into a self-inflating jacket, plus one spare cartridge, may be carried by a passenger or crew in checked or carry-on baggage with airline operator approval.
Maintenance Features
- Service Indicator: A visual indicator (green for operable, red for fired/incorrectly fitted) allows for quick status checks of the inflation mechanism.
- Re-arming: After each inflation, the PFD must be re-armed with a new CO₂ cylinder/bayonet assembly. For MD2016, a new bobbin is also required. Detailed instructions are provided for both models, emphasizing the correct sequence of steps to avoid damage.
- Deflation: The PFD is deflated by reversing the oral-inflation tube dust cap and inserting it into the valve, then gently squeezing out all air/gas.
- Cleaning and Storing:
- Remove CO₂ cylinder/bayonet assembly (and bobbin for MD2016).
- Hand wash or sponge with warm, soapy water and rinse with clean water.
- Hang to dry on a plastic coat hanger. Ensure inflator is thoroughly dry before re-installing bobbin (MD2016).
- Store in a warm, dry place out of direct sunlight. Do not dry in front of a radiator or direct heat source.
- Regular Inspections:
- Before Each Use: Examine service indicator, ensure pull-tab is accessible, visually check for damage/wear.
- Every Two (2) Months:
- Leak Test: Orally inflate until firm and let stand for 16 hours. Replace if it leaks.
- Oral Inflation Valve Test: Fully inflate orally, hold valve under water, check for bubbles.
- Annually: Check all components for dirt/corrosion, visually examine for damage/wear, perform oral inflation valve test and leak test. For MD2016, ensure bobbin is not three years past its date. Record as "Annual" inspection on the Care and Storage label.
- Professional Servicing: If users are not confident in self-inspection and servicing, they should take the PFD to a Mustang dealer for professional servicing.
- Testing in Water: Users are encouraged to inflate their PFD and test it in water to ensure it floats them comfortably and adequately, and that the inflation system works quickly and easily. For MD2016, the automatic inflation system should be tested in shallow water at the beginning of each boating season.
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