YASI Surface Marker Buoy (SMB)
Model Series: Essential Safety Infrastructure & Surface Signaling Matrix
The YASI Surface Marker Buoy (SMB) is a professional-grade, high-visibility signaling device engineered to establish an absolute safety perimeter and clear line of communication with surface support vessels. Serving as your primary tactical deployment asset during ascents, safety stops, and mid-water decompression profiles, the YASI SMB features an advanced self-sealing internal baffle layout that retains full inflation volume even if the buoy is knocked flat on the surface waves. Forged from high-tensile, lightweight technical polymers and outfitted with industry-standard SOLAS-A reflective paneling, this 11.1-liter signaling column ensures maximum visual tracking across long distances, high swell states, and low-light marine environments.
Technical Safety Features
- Advanced Self-Sealing Bottom Entry: Smart internal baffle structure allows for effortless inflation via a regulator second stage or oral inflator, instantly locking gas inside to prevent accidental deflation on the surface
- SOLAS-A High-Intensity Reflective Tape: Premium, marine-certified SOLAS reflective panels affixed to the apex of the buoy provide maximum retroreflective return under searchlight beams for night or low-visibility tracking
- Calibrated Over-Pressure Valve (OPV): Precision mechanical pressure release valve automatically exhausts expanding gas during rapid ascents from depth, preventing structural seam ruptures while allowing manual pull-dump venting
- International Maritime Signaling Print: High-contrast "Diver Below" warning graphics and explicit dive flag icons are permanently sublimated into the textile matrix to maximize recognition by nearby boat traffic
- Heavy-Duty Top-Mounted D-Ring: Rugged, corrosion-free plastic D-ring anchor point provides a secure attachment interface for backup slate lines, strobe markers, or surface emergency lights
- Ultra-Compact Rolled Profile: Streamlined internal volume compresses down to an incredibly tight 8cm diameter, tucking away cleanly inside drysuit thigh pockets or clipping seamlessly to a technical harness configuration
Technical Specifications & Volumetric Parameters
| Technical Parameter | Material & Construction Standard |
|---|---|
| Component Classification | Self-Sealing High-Visibility Surface Marker Buoy (SMB) |
| Fully Inflated Dimensions | 142cm (Length) x 21cm (Width) |
| Stowed / Rolled Dimensions | 26cm (Width) x 8cm (Diameter) |
| Internal Gas Volume | 11.1 Litres (High-Buoyancy Column) |
| Net Dry Weight | 300g (Lightweight Expedition Profile) |
| Chromatographic Safety Profile | High-Visibility International Safety Orange |
Technology
SELF-SEALING GAS RETENTION & PRESSURE EQUALIZATION
Standard open-ended surface markers suffer from a critical failure vector: if the buoy falls over in heavy surface swells or if tension on the reel line is briefly relaxed, the air inside immediately vents out the bottom, causing the marker to sink out of sight. The YASI Surface Marker Buoy overcomes this limitation through its integrated one-way internal baffle matrix. Gas enters smoothly from beneath but is blocked from exiting along the same path. Combined with a robust over-pressure valve that releases excess gas as ambient hydrostatic pressure drops during ascent, the buoy arrives at the surface perfectly rigid and maintains its full 11.1-liter volume to give your surface tracking team an uncompromised visual target.