Frequently Asked Questions about the SR-100


What is the SR-100 and how does it differ from other SCSRs?
The SR-100, or SCSR, is a breathing apparatus worn on the belt to allow for the quickest possible access in emergency situations. The SR-100 is not a traditional oxygen tank. Rather the SR-100 is a chemical-based re-breather, which recycles the user’s exhaled breath, chemically scrubs the carbon dioxide from the air and replenishes it with oxygen.

How long will the SR-100 provide air?
The user can perform up to 60 minutes of work and/or movement at NIOSH approved rates.

What is the shelf-life of an SR-100?
If properly maintained and frequently inspected, the SR-100 can provide up to ten years of service.

My SR-100 has experienced trauma, should I continue to use it?
No. Signs of significant trauma include substantial dents in the SR-100, breaks or punctures in the orange outer cover. If the SR-100 has been crushed, exposed to temperatures in excess of 130° F or suffered any damage that may cause the security strap to become slack, unattached or unfastened, remove from service.

If my unit has been exposed to extreme temperatures, should I continue to use it?

The safe storage temperature for the SR-100 ranges from 32° F to 130° F. If your SR-100 has been exposed to temperatures above 130° F immediately remove from service.  For SR-100’s produced after June 2004, temperature indicators are located on the side of the SR-100.  If this indicator is red, remove from service.

If the internal temperature of the unit drops below 32° F the unit must be temporarily removed from service.  Once the internal temperature rises above 32° F the unit may be returned to service.

How does the SR-100 work?
The SR-100 provides the highest level of respiratory protection for workers who must perform duties in potentially dangerous conditions. The SR-100 is not a traditional oxygen tank. Rather the SR-100 recycles exhaled breath, chemically scrubbing carbon dioxide while replenishing the oxygen based on the user’s demand or work rate. A bi-directional chemical canister system moves exhaled breath through two passes through the carbon dioxide absorption/oxygen generation canister before the oxygen returns to the user. This innovative technology is employed in mining, tunneling, the armed forces, chemical plants, pulp/paper plants, water treatment plants and confined space entry industries where immediate reliable access to breathable oxygen can make all of the difference.

When was the first SR-100 introduced to market?
CSE introduced the first SCSR in 1981. In 1989, the company introduced the SR-100, the first-ever belt wearable, one-hour rated SCSR.

Who uses the SR-100?
The SR-100 offers the highest level of respiratory protection for workers who must perform duties in potentially dangerous conditions. The SR-100s are employed in a wide variety of industries including mining, tunneling, the armed forces, chemical plants, pulp/paper plants, water treatment plants and confined space entry.

Who manufacturers the SR-100?
CSE Corporation designs, manufacturers and markets the SR-100. CSE is a family-owned business, which has been in operation for nearly 40 years and employs more than 100 people. The company’s focus has been creating, developing and providing equipment that helps save miners’ lives.

What other products does CSE manufacture?
In addition to the SR-100, CSE produces the Explorer 4, a hand-held monitor that continuously monitors and detects the presence of carbon combustible gases, toxic gases and oxygen in the air. CSE Corporation is headquartered in Monroeville, Pa.

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