Skylaunch Cable Retrieve Winch
This unique high speed winch system increases launch rates up to 30 gliders per hour. Eliminates airfield damage caused by cable tow vehicle & increases life of launching cable. Robust design, proven over 15 years operation, with many safety features ensures a reliable, easily operated & maintained long life machine.
Description
The Skylaunch ‘run free’ design ensures launch heights are not noticeably reduced with this system.
Lightweight winch is easily towed on soft airfield or legally on highway with a car.
Chassis pivoting wheel chock (with starter interlock) & trailer handbrake ensures safe/rapid set up for launching.
Laminated safety glass screen/roof panel with flashing beacon, signal lamp & siren.
Simple colour coded controls are ergonomically positioned for safe/ accurate control.
Easy one lever operation with preset speed system.
Cable drum brake is automatically controlled.
Engine/transmission warning lamps are connected to a buzzer.
Panels & covers are easy access with gas strut assistors or hinge mounted for instant opening.
Lightweight steel cable drum is reinforced large diameter narrow width type, fully machined & balanced with anti-loop guides.
No cable pay-on mechanism is required.
Cable feeds onto bottom of drum for safer, trouble free operation.
Reliable industrial VW 4 cylinder engine & radiator with two electronic cooling fans. Torque converter on output shaft ensures smooth operation.
Final drive with disengage system to free wheel & eliminate drag on the glider.
Standard Lockheed disc brake system on cable drum hub for precise control after glider release.
Hardened rollers are long life type, do not damage cable joins (unlike V pulleys)
Cable entry/exit height is at very low level for safety (& easy access).
Heavy duty guillotine, for steel or synthetic cable, activated by powerful spring.
All machines are supplied with on-site training, including detailed Operator’s & Maintenance Manuals
