The LPAL-17 Linear Pneumatic Antenna Launcher is a new variation on our Compact Antenna Launchers. My son Chris (KG6LXL) came up with this design. He has used his prototype on several Field Days and it has performed well. It fits into the same 18 inch tool case that our PADS (Pneumatic Antenna Deployment System) based on the CSV17 launcher fits. Instead of the Compact “U” one-piece design this antenna launcher fits in the case as 3 parts and threads quickly together into an efficient Linear Configured Antenna Launcher about 40″ long. This arrangement allows a longer pressure chamber of 3×10 inches instead of the CSV17’s 3×6 inch chamber so the air chamber volume is more than 50% larger. This will allow the LPAL-17 to either operate at lower pressure for the same height, or to reach higher at full pressure. We have not fully characterized the maximum height of this launcher, but it should be in the 140 foot plus range, in between the CSV17 and CSV19. Maximum launch height varies due to many factors including altitude, wind, air moisture content, ball drag, weight and both reel and line drag.

The removable threaded junctions don’t need to seal perfectly as they are downstream of the main valve and only see pressure for tens of milliseconds. The more critical upstream valve and pressure tank seals are not disassembled to pack in the case. The Pressure Chamber and Valves form one unit, the handle is another, and the third is the barrel. Each of these are joined by threaded joints. It takes only moments to assemble. As with all our pneumatic antenna launchers compressed air or CO2 is required, and the pressure chamber needs to be refilled for each launch.

This combination is equivalent to our PADS combo – Launcher, Accessories and Case in one package deal.

The LPAL-17 Pre-Assembled Super Antenna Launcher Set  ($369 plus shipping)** Includes:

• Antenna Launcher with 14 inch special SDR21 tennis ball size barrel, grip and pressure chamber, trigger, pressure gauge and schrader (tire) filling valve, pre-assembled and tested. (The one we have in stock is pictured with the lavendar SDR21 barrel material, future models will be the white material).
• Mini Coaxial Reel pre loaded with 125 yards of high visibility 50 pound test Launch Line (the one we have in stock ready to ship is the lathe turned PVC reel, future units will be the 3D printed reel with internal barrel extension).
• 3 Launch Balls (weighted, with loops), ready to use
• 270 foot Medium Nylon Twine on Reel for next stage lifting and light antennas (can be exchanged for a drill twine, advise at time of order)
• Two piece friction fit Ramrod for easy fit into the Case
• 18 inch Tool Case to protect and carry the launcher and accessories

 ** Plus applicable sales tax to California purchasers.

This launcher is only available in pre-assembled form.

Contact us via email if you are interested in this launcher. We may have one in stock for immediate shipping. It has been added to the online catalog, but the in-stock status may change at any time.

73, Alan w6akb and Chris kg6lxl

4/5/2021