Breathing Air Cascade Systems

SCBAS Inc. pigtailed breathing air cascade systems are designed to support the operational needs of First Responders by providing organized, high‑pressure air storage for refilling SCBA cylinders. These systems are commonly used in fire stations, training facilities, and emergency response environments where dependable access to breathing air is critical.

Available in multiple pressure ratings and cylinder quantities, these cascade systems allow departments to select the configuration that best fits their air demand, available space, and operational workflow.

Features

• Pigtailed Cylinder Connections: Each storage cylinder is interconnected using tee fittings and flexible high‑pressure pigtails, allowing air to flow between cylinders while accommodating spacing and alignment.
• Individual Cylinder Control: Pigtailed systems allow operators to open and close each storage cylinder independently during SCBA refill operations.
• High‑Pressure Air Storage: Designed to store compressed breathing air used for refilling SCBA cylinders.
• Multiple Cylinder Configurations: Offered in 2, 3, 4, and 5 cylinder systems to support varying operational requirements.
• Pressure Options: Available in both 4500 PSI and 6000 PSI system designs.
• Rack or No‑Rack Options: Standard (STD) models include a storage rack; without‑rack (WOR) models allow for custom or existing mounting solutions.
• Organized System Layout: Includes cylinders, tees, pigtails, and protective caps and chains as part of the assembled system.

What is it?

A breathing air cascade system is a high‑pressure air storage system used to refill self‑contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) cylinders. In a pigtailed cascade system, each storage cylinder is connected to the next using a tee fitting and a flexible high‑pressure pigtail hose. This design allows multiple cylinders to function together as a single air source while still being controlled individually.

How is it used?

During SCBA cylinder refilling, air is supplied from the cascade storage cylinders through compatible fill equipment. Operators open one storage cylinder at a time, using additional cylinders as needed to complete the fill. The pigtail connections allow air to transfer between cylinders while maintaining flexibility and controlled operation throughout the refill process.

Who uses it?

• Fire Departments
• Emergency Medical Services (EMS)
• Hazardous Materials (HAZMAT) Teams
• Technical Rescue Teams
• Industrial and Municipal Emergency Response Units
• Fire and Safety Training Facilities

Maintenance Information

Routine inspection and maintenance are part of normal operation for breathing air systems. Typical considerations include checking cylinder condition, verifying secure connections, and monitoring system pressure. Maintenance practices should follow department policies and applicable safety standards.

What is it used with?

• SCBA cylinders
• SCBA fill stations
• High‑pressure breathing air compressors
• Fill hoses and regulators compatible with SCBA systems

What material is it made from?

Each system includes:

• High‑pressure air storage cylinders
• Tee fittings connecting each cylinder
• Flexible high‑pressure pigtail hoses between cylinders
• Protective caps and securing chains
• Optional storage rack on STD models