Launcher Information

The S2 pneumatic launcher operates at 145psi. It is purpose built to launch the S2 aircraft. The safety features of the launcher include:

  1. 135psi pressure relief valve on smaller value-actuator tank

  2. 175psi pressure relief valve on main firing tank (tank rated to 200psi operating)

  3. Main firing tank is fitted with a burst disc rated at 400psi

  4. Remote vent in the case of system fault - system is wired independently of the firing subsystem and can be vented anytime the system is powered on

  5. Manual vent in case of complete battery failure

  6. Strobe on tank to indicate firing subsystem is active and able to fire

Venting the System

If for any reason you decide not to fire, press-and-hold the vent button to evacuate all of the tanks. Always ensure that the system is vented before approaching it.

Battery Charging

To charge the battery in the launch case, simply plug in a 120V extension cable into the external charge port on the side of the case.

Troubleshooting and Safety Procedures

Danger

Never move in front of the launcher or aircraft while system is pressurized. If the launcher box needs to be approached, do so from the side of the system, and not in line with the path of the aircraft.

Pump Stops and Strobe is not Illuminated

If the pump stops but the strobe does not turn on, then it is likely the battery died and did not fill the tank properly. Press the vent button to evacuate the tank and then if the battery gauge shows it's low connect a secondary power supply.

System Doesn't Fire After Strobe Turns On

If somehow the system does not fire after the strobe turns on, press and hold the vent button to evacuate the tank. It is possible that system was not setup correctly.

Vent Button Doesn't Work

In case the vent button does not work (very unlikely), turn the manual relief valve in the launch case. Be very careful when approaching the system while pressurized and stay clear of the potential path of the aircraft.

Primary Battery is Too Low

If the battery is too low at the start, you can use jumper cables to provide extra power from an external 12V Pb-acid, such as a car battery. When turning on be sure to set the switch to secondary.

Primary Valve Isn't Closed

Other than when firing the aircraft, the primary pneumatic valve should always be shut. If when setting up to fire you notice that the valve is open (yellow line parallel to the tank as shown in the first figure below) then you have to manually reset it. This has only be observed to occur in very low temperatures, below 0F. To manually reset the valve:

  1. Unscrew the valve handle and pull off the valve.

  2. Use a wrench to turn the valve to the closed position.

  3. The valve should be perpendicular to the tank when closed as in the picture. Push back on the valve top and screw it back down.