The PLT® Line Thrower is a pneumatic line throwing system designed for various purposes, driven by compressed air. It is manufactured by RESTECH NORWAY AS, located at P.O. Box 624, N-8001 Bodø, Norway. Contact information includes phone numbers +47 7554 2440 and +47 7554 2441, email restech@restech.no, and website www.restech.no.
Function Description
The PLT® Line Thrower system operates by utilizing compressed air to propel various projectiles. The core of the system is a base unit, which is interchangeable with different launching tubes and projectiles, allowing for versatility across various applications. When the closing valve is opened, air flows from the air cylinder, through a reducing valve, and into the accumulator of the base unit, reaching a pressure of 75 bars (1088 psi). Upon pulling the trigger, a small amount of air is evacuated to activate a shutter mechanism, which then allows the 75 bars (1088 psi) of compressed air to flow into the launching tube. This generates a shooting force of 7630 N at the rear end of the projectile, launching it.
The system is air-driven, meaning it uses no explosives, making it safe to fire from and into inflammable areas. A safety knob is integrated to prevent accidental firing.
Important Technical Specifications
Base Unit
- Weight / Length: 7.5 Kg / 65 cm (16.5 lb / 25.5 in)
- Colour: Red and Blue
- Materials: Anodised Aluminium and Stainless Steel
- Accumulator Pressure: 75 bars (1088 psi)
- Average Muzzle Velocity: 60 m/s (200 ft/s)
- Recoil, Max: 5300 N
- Air Cylinder Pressure: 200/300 bars (3000/4350 psi)
- Volume: 1.500 cm³ (91 in³)
- Coupling: Standard BA-Coupling DIN 477
Projectile Ranges
The PLT® system can achieve throwing distances up to 230 m (755 ft), depending on the projectile used. Examples of standard projectiles include:
- Projectile Rescue 230: Range 230 m
- Projectile Rescue 125: Range 125 m
- Projectile Mooring: Range 90 m
- Grapnel: Range 90 m
- Projectile "Lightstick": Range 90 m
- Ball M75: Range 90 m
Usage Features
How to Use Mooring 150
- Assembly: Screw the launching tube onto the base unit.
- Line Attachment: Ensure the line is securely fastened to the loop on the projectile.
- Air Filling: Turn the handle of the closing valve to allow air to flow into the accumulator. Shut the valve after 5-10 seconds. For shorter shooting distances, fill less air.
- Projectile Loading: Insert the line into the line track along the projectile, then insert the projectile all the way into the launching tube.
- Line Securing: Fasten the end of the line to a solid point at the launching site. If using a line box, hold it with the same hand used for pulling the safety knob.
- Aiming: Aim over the target at an angle of approximately 27°. Ensure the PLT® is well supported, either with a Pivot Support or by holding the rear end of the PLT®.
- Firing: Push the safety knob, then pull the trigger with a firm and rapid movement to launch the projectile.
How to Reload the Line into the Linebox
- Preparation: After use, rinse the line in fresh water and allow it to dry. A wet or salty line increases weight and reduces shooting length.
- Arrangement: After drying, arrange the line so it can run freely from the coil or a bucket.
- Attachment: Tie the end of the line to the loop inside the Linebox.
- Packing: Manually and randomly pack the line into the Linebox. Periodically push downwards or knock the Linebox to ensure the line is well packed and fits entirely.
- Completion: Once all the line is loaded, tie on the ball, put the lid on, and it's ready for use.
- Note: Keeping the line in a linebox prevents knots or entanglement and facilitates storage.
Safety Features
- The PLT® must always be treated as a weapon and never pointed at persons.
- It must not be fired indoors.
- Hearing protection should be used during operation.
- Never fire the projectile without the line attached.
- Training with the PLT® is crucial for safety and effective operation.
Pivot Support
Due to the heavy recoil (5300 N), proper support for the PLT® is essential. The rear end of the PLT® can be held against a solid point. However, the use of a Pivot Support (Art no 1502) is recommended for flexibility and safety.
- The Pivot Support comes with pivot pins, nylon washers, and screws for fastening.
- A steel tube (Art no 1503) can be welded or clamped at the launching area to a secure point that withstands the recoil. Multiple tubes can be installed on board.
- Mounting the Pivot Support involves removing the cover and air cylinder, then fastening the pivot pins, nylon washers, and 6mm screws (included with Art no 1502) using thread glue like Loctite-270.
Maintenance Features
Maintenance and Refilling of the Air Cylinder
General Maintenance
- After Use:
- Clean the PLT® with fresh water and dry it to prevent oxidation and salt layers.
- Lubricate the air inlet on the regulator with 2-3 drops of oil.
- Refill the air cylinder with clean, dry air (200/300 bars / 3000/4350 psi).
- Monthly Check:
- Ensure air cylinder pressure is between 200 bars (3000 psi) minimum and 300 bars (4350 psi) maximum.
- Test the safety knob and trigger outdoors to ensure smooth movement, in case of residual air in the accumulator.
- Other:
- If the safety valve has blown, air leakage is detected, or other abnormal conditions occur, contact your dealer or RESTECH NORWAY AS.
- The air cylinder must be undamaged and inspected within its validity period according to national rules. If re-stamping, testing, or damage repair is needed, contact your dealer or RESTECH NORWAY AS.
- The PLT® line thrower must be stored in a dry and safe place.
Air Cylinder Refilling
- The air cylinder can be filled with 200 bars (3000 psi) for four shots or 300 bars (4350 psi) for six shots.
- For 300 bars (4350 psi) filling, connect to a standard scuba diving (breathing air) compressor with standard 5/8" threads (DIN 477).
- For 200 bars (3000 psi) filling, a yoke coupling ANSI - CGAV1/1989 is typically used. A fitting for this standard (Art no 1269) is available from RESTECH Norway A/S.
- Refilling must be done by skilled personnel and follow national rules. Ensure the closing valve is closed without force after filling.
- Crucially, never fill the air cylinder with oxygen; use only clean, dry air.
Factory Maintenance
- Your PLT® should undergo factory maintenance after 8 years or 500 shots, whichever comes first.
Spare Parts
- Spare parts are available from dealers or directly from Restech Norway A/S.
- Important: Service on the PLT® must only be carried out by skilled personnel (those trained and supervised by RESTECH NORWAY AS), and no adjustments should be made to any part. Complete parts are not split for sale due to safety reasons.
Spare Parts List (Base Unit)
- Art no 1000: Base complete without air cylinder
- Art no 1013: Firing valve complete
- Art no 1021: Reducing valve complete
- Art no 1031: Safety valve complete
- Art no 1050: Packing and O-rings complete
- Art no 1017: Cover complete
- Art no 1306: Air cylinder w/ closing valve
- Art no 1307: Closing valve w/ manometer
- Art no 9002: Manometer w/ packing
- Art no 1054: Hatch lock complete
Product Registration
RESTECH Norway AS encourages users to register their product on www.restech.no. This helps with quality assurance and allows the company to improve its products. Registered users can access the latest news, user manuals, user videos, and other resources, and receive newsletters. Those who complete the questionnaire during registration will receive a small personal gift. The serial number (RN) is required for registration.
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