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.
Here is an assembled launcher example:
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 CSV17 BASIC Kit
The CSV17 Pneumatic Antenna Launcher is the compact 17 inch long model. It has a 14 inch low friction tennis ball size barrel and a 3x6 inch pressure chamber and weighs about 4 pounds 12 ounces. This results in a compact launcher while still reaching typically about 120 feet (measured from the reel at the end of the barrel) in line launching trajectory height. The 3 inch diameter pressure chamber has been optimized for use with a smaller volume of compressed gas, allowing more efficient use of air and better compatibility with small CO2 cartridges or compact pumps. The short overall length allows the CSV17 to fit in a standard 18 inch tool case to provide enhanced portability for field applications and storage. The CSV17 is more than adequate for the majority of Antenna Launching situations for trees up to 110 feet tall.
This item is supplied in 'kit' form. It requires assembly which includes cementing PVC as well as drilling and tapping some holes in the plastic. Before ordering review the assembly instructions in the info section of the website to see details of the assembly and decide if you are prepared to assemble one yourself before ordering a kit.
This is a Basic Kit. It includes the required parts for the launcher which includes the pressure chamber, fill valve, pressure gauge, main valve, thumb trigger, and the tennis ball size barrel that fits tennis balls with minimal friction, but does not include options or accessories. Examples of things that are not included are the drill bit and 1/8 NPT tap for the gauge and fill valve holes, teflon tape or paste for the threads, a pressure safety valve, a ramrod, the launch balls (or loop kits), a reel system, launch line and PVC cement.
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.