cylinder-elongation readout, a 24-hour clock, a wind-
speed digital indicator, an ambient-temperature digital
readout, the capacity -selector-valve-position readout, the
manual-aircraft-data-input-system readout, the digital
endspeed indicator console and thermal printer, phone
jacks, and a phone selector switch.
RIGHT-FRONT PANEL.— The right-front panel
is used when operating in any of the three different
modes of operation; that is, during normal operation,
EMERGENCY MODE I, or EMERGENCY MODE II.
During normal operation, the catapult is controlled from
the ICCS. In this mode of operation, the right-front
panel monitors various functions of the catapult. The
main power switch for the catapult electrical control
circuit is located on the panel. The main POWER-ON
light comes on when the switch is in the ON position.
The LAUNCH-VALVE-STROKE-TIMER push button
is on the panel and is used to turn the power on and off
for the launch-valve-stroke-timer circuit. The launch-
valve-stroke-timer clocks located on the panel indicate
the length of time required for the launching-valve-
operation-controls crosshead to move through two
predetermined distances. Gauges on the panel indicate
water-brake pressure, steam pressure, and water
temperature. Lights also indicate the status of the
steam-receiver water temperature, water level, water
charging and blowdown valves, steam charging valves,
steam blowdown valve, and steam riser valve. The
catapult READY, FINAL READY, and FIRE lights are
also operative. A catapult SUSPEND push button is
provided on the panel in case an unsafe condition is
noticed at the central charging panel during operations.
The MANEUVER GRAB AFT push button is operative
only during a hangfire situation and when operating in
EMERGENCY MODE II.
Launching Valve Emergency
Cutout Valve
The purpose of the launching valve emergency
cutout valve is the same on all steam catapults. It is
used to prevent the launching valves from opening
during a hangfire condition by causing the launch valve
control valve to shift to the CLOSED position, ensuring
that hydraulic pressure is directed to the closing side of
the launching valves hydraulic cylinders until the
emergency cutout valve is returned to its normal
position.
This section of the chapter discusses the general
operation of the catapults on ships through CV-67.
PREOPERATIONAL INSPECTION
A preoperational inspection must be accurately and
methodically conducted before each day’s operation or
every 2 weeks when the catapult is in an UP status but
not operating, to ensure its safe and proper operation.
All inspections conducted on the catapults and
catapult-associated equipment will be conducted
according to current maintenance requirement cards
(MRCs)
PRELIMINARY PROCEDURES
Prior to charging the hydraulic and air systems,
there are several conditions that must exist or be
prepared. These conditions are listed on the applicable
MRCs as preliminary steps, and must be carried out
before the actual charging and checkout procedures can
begin. All electrical circuits should be energized, fluid
levels must be checked, and an adequate supply of
high-pressure air ensured. The emergency panel on the
control console should be used so that the catapult may
be operated from that position. Safety personnel should
be stationed along the catapult track to ensure that the
area remains clear during the catapult checkout. All
valves should be set according to the applicable MRCs.
LUBRICATION
Before each day’s operation, make sure the
lubrication system supply tank is filled with the correct
amount of oil. Lubricate all parts of the catapult that
require daily lubrication according to the MRCs.
Shuttle Track
The shuttle track slot seals should be removed and
the track and adjacent area inspected before the catapult
is fired.
Accessory Equipment
The following accessory equipment should be in its
proper location on the flight deck:
• Hold back and release units
• Adequate supply of tension bars and
tensioning devices for all types of
aircraft scheduled to be launched
• Nose-gear launch equipment
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