Challenges

Ultra-reliable robust pressure storage

  • In high-performance recreational and professional applications—such as diving, motorsports, and rescue operations—failure is not an option. These environments demand pressure vessels that are not only lightweight but also exceptionally durable and reliable under extreme conditions. Steelhead’s composite overwrapped pressure vessels (COPVs) are engineered to deliver consistent performance, even in the most demanding use cases.

Safely lightweighting equipment life-support systems, and high pressure gas applications

  • Whether it’s a diver’s breathing system or a supercar’s pneumatic suspension, reducing weight without compromising safety is critical. Steelhead’s vessels are designed with advanced composite materials that offer superior strength-to-weight ratios, enabling safer, more agile equipment that enhances user performance and endurance.

End user handling challenges for the application

  • Many niche applications require vessels that are easy to handle, integrate, and maintain. From ergonomic form factors to compatibility with custom fittings, Steelhead designs its vessels with the end user in mind—ensuring intuitive use, minimal training, and seamless integration into specialized systems.

Solutions and Recommendations

Small Pressure Vessels

for breathing air, nitrogen, CO2

  • Steelhead offers compact, DOT-compliant COPVs ideal for portable gas storage in applications like SCUBA diving, firefighting, medical rescue, and motorsports. These vessels are optimized for safety, portability, and ease of use, making them a trusted choice for life-support and performance-critical systems.
Lightweight accumulators

for light weight high performance equipment

  • Our lightweight accumulators are engineered for integration into high-end systems such as supercars, aerospace-grade robotics, and watercraft. These vessels provide rapid gas discharge and recharge cycles, supporting dynamic performance while minimizing system weight and inertia.
Recertification Services

to keep DOT active

  • Steelhead provides recertification services to ensure continued compliance with Department of Transportation (DOT) regulations. This service is essential for extending the life of pressure vessels used in regulated environments, reducing replacement costs and ensuring ongoing safety.

Relevant Projects

Avelo Dive System

Steelhead’s small-format COPVs are a core component of the Avelo Dive System—a revolutionary lightweight scuba platform that redefines underwater mobility and buoyancy control. The system replaces traditional buoyancy compensators with a patented Hydrotank and Jetpack configuration, enabling divers to achieve stable neutral buoyancy without the need for constant inflation adjustments. This innovation reduces the average scuba gear weight by nearly 50%, significantly improving diver comfort, safety, and bottom time. Steelhead’s pressure vessels are DOT, CE, and ISO 11119-2 certified, and rated to 200 meters, making them ideal for both recreational and technical diving. The Avelo System is available through certified Avelo Dive Centers and is designed for adventurers seeking a streamlined, intuitive, and environmentally conscious diving experience.

Visit DiveAvelo.com for more information

OEM & Motor Sport High performance Vehicles

Our lightweight accumulators and gas storage vessels are integrated into elite automotive platforms, where they support advanced suspension, braking, and energy recovery systems—delivering performance without compromise.

Water sport racing leagues

Steelhead vessels are trusted by competitive water sport teams for their reliability, compactness, and ability to withstand high-pressure demands in fast-paced, high-impact environments