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 CSV17 Super MCR Pre-Assembled
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 is a Super Pre-Assembled model. It comes pre-assembled and tested, and in addition includes options and accessories as detailed below.
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 90 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. Launch Balls are a consumable item when they get stuck or lost. Consider getting spare Launch Balls.
Included is a Ramrod to push the balls down the barrel during preparations for launch (loading).
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.