Merülfülke

A merülfülke, often translated as dive chamber or decompression chamber, is a specialized compartment used in diving operations. Its primary function is to facilitate the controlled ascent of divers from deep depths to the surface, preventing decompression sickness, commonly known as "the bends." Inside the merülfülke, divers can undergo a process of gradual depressurization, allowing dissolved gases in their tissues to safely release. This controlled environment replicates the ambient pressure conditions that the diver experienced at depth, but at a progressively lower level.

Merülfülke are typically used in commercial diving, scientific research, and military applications where divers operate at significant depths for extended periods. They are essential for managing the physiological effects of pressure on the human body. The chamber itself is a robust, cylindrical structure, capable of withstanding high pressures and equipped with life support systems, communication equipment, and monitoring devices to ensure the safety and well-being of the occupants during the decompression process. The duration and stages of decompression within the merülfülke are determined by dive tables or computer algorithms, based on the depth, time spent at depth, and the mixture of gases used.