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HEED 3 HP 4500 PSI Emergency Breathing Device Overview
The HEED 3 HP 4500 PSI model is the newer high pressure version of the well known Helicopter Emergency Egress Device series. It is designed for pilots, crew, SAR and over water aviation operators who need a compact air source for underwater or flooded cabin escape. This is not scuba gear. It is a short duration emergency breathing system intended to give you the time to unbuckle, clear an exit and get to the surface.
What is the HEED 3 HP 4500 PSI
HEED stands for Helicopter Emergency Egress Device. The 4500 PSI version increases the available air while keeping the package small enough to mount on a survival vest or inside a helicopter cockpit. At roughly 2.9 cubic feet it offers more breathing time than older 3000 PSI units that were closer to 2 cubic feet. High pressure in a small footprint is the main benefit.
This new offering is ideal for operators that work near or over water, float and amphibious aircraft, utility helicopters, offshore operations, law enforcement aviation and training environments where dunkers or egress trainers are used.
Key Features
- High pressure 4500 PSI cylinder in a compact body.
- Approximate capacity of 2.9 cu ft which is a solid increase over legacy 2 cu ft units.
- Flexible braided hose for fast access while wearing a vest or flight suit.
- MOLLE style or holster style carry system so the hose is protected and out of the way.
- Dial or indicator to confirm cylinder pressure before flight.
- Refillable from approved air sources when serviced correctly. **We have the ability to do this at our shop if you send it in.
- Made for aviation and marine egress where seconds matter more than long duration breathing.
Why the 4500 PSI Upgrade Matters
Moving from 3000 PSI to 4500 PSI lets you keep about the same cylinder size but increase the volume of usable air. In an underwater egress you may spend time orienting yourself, pushing a door or window, helping another crew member or clearing gear. An extra margin of air can make that process and egress safer.
The 4500 PSI version is also a good fit for operators who fly with passengers that are not egress trained. A crew member with a higher capacity emergency breathing device is in a better position to assist others.
Quick Comparison: HEED 3 HP 4500 vs Poseidon EBS MK II
| Feature | HEED 3 HP 4500 PSI | Poseidon EBS MK II 4500 PSI |
|---|---|---|
| Pressure rating | 4500 PSI | 4500 PSI |
| Approx. capacity | 2.9 cu ft | About 3.4 cu ft (slightly more air) |
| Cylinder material | High pressure cylinder, compact footprint | Carbon fiber 4500 PSI cylinder for lighter weight |
| Best use | Helicopter egress, vest mount, small cockpits | Helicopter Egress, Aviation survival, SAR, users who want maximum duration |
If the goal is to stay as compact as possible, the HEED 3 4500 is an excellent choice. If the goal is to get every bit of extra air in the same pressure rating, the Poseidon EBS MK II has a small advantage. Both are available on this website and we can also service them when needed.
Typical Use Cases
- Helicopter operators that cross water or support offshore platforms.
- Training organizations that run underwater egress or dunker courses.
- Float plane or amphibious aircraft owners that want an extra layer of safety.
- Public safety aviation that may operate low and slow over rivers, lakes or coastal areas.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does the HEED 3 4500 PSI last?
Duration depends on breathing rate, stress and depth. The 2.9 cu ft supply is intended to give you enough time to release belts, find the exit and get clear of the aircraft. It is an emergency air source and not a long duration underwater unit.
Can I refill it myself?
Many operators refill HEED units from approved breathing air sources using the correct adapters. Follow the manufacturer guidance and your maintenance program. If you do not have an approved air source, have it filled by a qualified service. We can do that for you at Emergency Breathing Systems in Melbourne, Florida call 321-821-4724 for more info. We can also repair, refurb devices as well.
Is the holster required?
The holster or MOLLE style pouch protects the hose and keeps the unit where you can reach it. For aviation survival we recommend keeping the system mounted the same way every flight so you can grab it by muscle memory.
Is there a bigger option on this site?
Yes. You can also look at the Poseidon EBS MK II 4500 PSI carbon fiber system which has slightly more air and uses a carbon fiber bottle for lighter weight.
Can this be used for government or contract purchases?
Yes. This style of emergency breathing system is often used in aviation and marine operations. To help procurement, you can list the product with identifiers like FSC 4240 Safety and Rescue Equipment and NAICS 423850. You can also provide your CAGE or manufacturer details on the same page.
Real questions by helicopter pilots and crew
Do I really need an emergency breathing system if I only fly coastal and rivers, not open water?
If you cross bridges, bays, marsh, or work near water, an EBS reduces risk during a partial submersion or fast rollover. Many operators treat it like a seat belt upgrade. You may never need it, but the cost of not having it during one bad day is high.
What is the real world difference between 2.9 cu ft and about 3.4 cu ft?
It is extra breathing margin. In practice that can be the time it takes to unbuckle, help a passenger, or work a stubborn door. HEED 3 HP 4500 is compact at 2.9 cu ft. Poseidon EBS MK II is about 3.4 cu ft, so it gives a little more buffer in the same pressure class.
Where do crews mount these so they do not snag on harnesses or gear?
Common placements are a survival vest MOLLE panel, a belt position near the hip, or a secured bracket in the cockpit. HEED 3 uses a holster that keeps the hose protected. Poseidon offers hose length options so you can route it cleanly around armor, NVG packs, or medical kits.
Can we refill these at the hangar with our compressor, or do we need to send them out?
Many operators refill in house with approved breathing air and the correct adapter. Follow the cylinder and regulator instructions, log fills, and keep inspections current. If you do not maintain breathing air standards, use a qualified service or your SCBA or SCUBA support vendor like us. It's all about if your compressor can get to the right pressure, etc.
Which one should I choose if our priority is smallest footprint vs longest breathing time?
Pick HEED 3 HP 4500 if you want the most compact setup with a simple holster that lives nicely on a vest. Pick Poseidon EBS MK II if your priority is maximum air in a light carbon fiber bottle. Both are credible for aviation survival. Choose based on your space, hose routing, and mission profile.
Which emergency breathing system should I choose for our crew?
It comes down to space, how much air you want on tap, and how you prefer to deploy the mouthpiece or regulator under stress. Some pilots want the smallest unit for a vest pocket. Others want the most air they can carry.
Think about three things: how tight your mounting space is, how much air you want in reserve, and how you prefer to grab the mouthpiece under stress. Smaller units ride lighter and tuck into tight vests. Larger units give you extra breathing margin during a messy egress. Both approaches are valid.
| Model | Pressure | Approx. Air | Mouthpiece / Regulator | Hose Options | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Poseidon EBS MK II 1.6 cu ft (0.22 L) | 3000 PSI | ~1.6 cu ft | Second stage regulator with mouthpiece | 20" standard black hardware 24" available in chrome 27" special application black | Ultra compact for minimal space and training fleets |
| Poseidon EBS MK II 2.0 cu ft (0.29 L) | 3000 PSI | ~2.0 cu ft | Second stage regulator with mouthpiece | 20" standard black hardware 24" available in chrome 27" special application black | Bottle type options: CE or DOT. First stage options: On-Off valve or Always On. Regulator color options available. |
| HEED 3 Hoseless (integrated mouthpiece) | 3000 PSI | 2.0 cu ft | Integrated mouthpiece on cylinder | No hose | Lightest grab and go option with one hand use, may be awkward to use as the bottle is close to your face |
| HEED 3 with Hose 2.0 cu ft | 3000 PSI | ~2.0 cu ft | Second stage regulator with mouthpiece | 20" or 27" | Simple routing on a vest with a compact cylinder |
| HEED 3 HP 4500 PSI | 4500 PSI | ~2.9 cu ft | Two stage regulator with mouthpiece | Commonly 20" or 27" depending on kit | Balanced pick for frequent over water ops without a big size jump |
| Poseidon EBS MK II Carbon Fiber 3.4 cu ft (0.32 L) | 4500 PSI | ~3.4 cu ft | Second stage regulator with mouthpiece | 20" standard black hardware 24" available in chrome 27" special application black | Largest reserve in this lineup with a light carbon fiber bottle |
In plain terms: pick a smaller unit if space and weight are your top concerns. Choose a hose model if you want clean routing on a vest and a mouthpiece you can stage where you grab it every time. If your mission pushes you offshore or you want the most breathing time in the same pressure class, the Poseidon carbon fiber option is the top end choice.
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