What material is the high pressure line of an SCBA constructed from?

The high-pressure line of a Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus (SCBA) is constructed from double braided stainless steel due to its strength, flexibility, and resistance to damage. This material provides the necessary durability to withstand the high pressures that occur within the system, which can exceed 4,000 psi. The double braided design offers an additional layer of safety and protection against potential ruptures or leaks, ensuring that the air supply remains secure and reliable during critical operations, such as firefighting or hazardous material response.

The other materials listed, such as polyvinyl chloride, rubber, and aluminum alloy, do not possess the same level of strength or pressure resistance required for high-pressure applications. Polyvinyl chloride and rubber are more suitable for lower pressure systems and do not have the durability needed for high-stress environments, while aluminum alloy is typically used in other components of SCBA systems but does not provide the same wear resistance and flexibility as double braided stainless steel in high-pressure lines.