Our Antenna Launchers use compressed air (or CO2) to propel a tennis ball towing a line over trees, and this line is used to raise antennas for Emergency and Ham Radio operations. The fast acting high flow piloted diaphragm valve makes one launch from the pressurized chamber and must be repressurized for the next launch. The over/under configuration makes these launchers compact, easier to transport and less likely to be damaged than a linear configuration. The current threaded models are easier to construct and repair. Tennis balls modified into launch balls are safer than other projectiles yet very effective for this application, (compared with arrows, hard plastic or metal objects such as lead sinkers), and compressed air is more controllable (and more frequently legal to use) than other mechanisms such as bows, slingshots and combustion powered systems.
A CSV launcher consists of a pressure chamber, the main and trigger valves, the "U" section that makes them compact, and the tennis ball size barrel. A custom spacer and heavy duty plastic strap strengthens the launcher and a trigger strut keeps the trigger system stable. Parts are precision machined or 3D printed for precise fit and alignment. Threaded joints ease assembly and maintenance so cemented joints are kept to a minimum. A coaxial reel or fishing reel mount setup feeds line to the launch ball. The reel is removable for convenient retrieval and storage.
All our launchers include the special barrel material that has the proper inner diameter to fit tennis balls with low friction and good air seal. The launcher has a small gauge showing chamber pressure, and a schrader valve to fill the chamber through, the same as a car tire. The launcher can be filled with a manual pump or small electric compressor, and is similar to filling a small bicycle tire. CO2 may also be used. The usual pressure range is 30 to 60 psi, depending on the height desired.
Detailed Description of the PADS Gold MCR Pre-Assembled
From time to time we release a limited run of PADS Gold packages. The contents vary but are based on a high performance Antenna Launcher, a Professional quality hard case and additional accessories compared to the standard PADS package. The PADS Gold Antenna Launcher Package for 2021 includes a Special Improved CSV17d Antenna Launcher and a quality Nanuk (similar to Pelican) hard case, as well as additional accessories than the standard PADS model, as detailed below. Quantities of this package will be limited.
The CSV17d Pneumatic Antenna Launcher is an improved model with performance enhancements compared to the standard CSV17, approaching that of the CSV19 but in a smaller and more compact package. It has a 15.5 inch tennis ball size barrel and a 3x8.5 inch chamber compared to the 14 inch barrel and 3x6 inch chamber of the standard CSV17b. The "d" model is also 2 ounces lighter than the standard at 4lb 10oz. The larger chamber and longer barrel allows the CSV17d it to operate at lower pressures for the same height or reach greater heights. This launcher has not been fully characterized yet but should exceed 140 feet in launch height.
Note the CSV17d launcher is still in testing. Pricing, details and availability are subject to change. Contact us via email if you wish to get on the list for this limited availability special package.
Note this Special CSV17d launcher is only available in this PADS Gold package.
Included is the Trigger Support Strut. The trigger strut provides support for the thumb trigger valve to keep it from rotating on the threads.
Included is the optional Pressure Safety Valve. This prevents the pressure from exceeding safe levels. It is especially important if filling from pressure sources that can exceed 100 psi.
Included is the Mini Coaxial Reel (MCR) accessory which is pre-assembled and pre-loaded with 125 yards of launch line. This rugged reel friction fits on the barrel for easy rewinding and storage. It mounts coaxially around the barrel and the large fifteen inch circumference feeds line with minimum friction, allowing excellent height and range while being compact for good portability. It has a 2 inch barrel extension inside.
Launch Line is included and already pre-installed on the MCR. This line is a consumable as it wears or gets broken off it will need to be replaced or extended. Consider getting spare launch line.
Included is a set of three prepared Launch Balls. They are weighted with sand to a total of about four ounces for better line towing, more momentum and improved descending. They have rugged loops for attaching the launch line. Included in this package is an additional set of three Launch Balls for a total of six.
Included is a Ramrod to push the balls down the barrel during preparations for launch (loading). This deluxe Ramrod is segmented to more easily fit in smaller spaces such as an 18 inch tool case.
Included are two 270 foot Twine Reels. This highly visible yellow-green twine is pulled up with the launching line. It comes on a convenient plastic spool. It is sufficient for short term use supporting moderate weight wire antennas (such as an inverted vee), or it is used to pull up heavier antenna support lines. Let us know if you would prefer to substitute the Drill Twine instead of this plastic hand winding spool.
You may want to read more about how to use these Antenna Launchers in the Launcher Operating Manual at the link below.
Always Wear Safety Glasses when using Antenna Launchers.
For more information on our launcher development history and additonal information on Antenna Launching see the following website:
This catalog is being updated. If you see any issues or have any suggestions please let us know by email - sales at akbeng.com. Thanks.