when filling each space on the log sheet. See figure
4-83 for a Steam Catapult Log sheet.
Log sheets are available in pad form, 100 sheets per
pad, and may be requisitioned according to section II of
NAVSUP Publication 2002 for steam catapults. Not
more than a 1-year supply should be stocked. Filled-in
log sheets must be retained in chronological order for
a period of at least 1 year.
Automated Shot and Recovery
Logs Program
An automated program has been developed to
record the Shot Log, Recovery Log, and the Wire Rope
History Report on computer disc. These discs would
then be sent to NAWC Lakehurst vice the stacks of
paper forms currently in use. The program will be
promulgated to all CVS upon completion of prototype
testing.
Retraction-Engine Operation
The linear and rotary retraction engine components
and operations were discussed previously in this
chapter; therefore, they will not be discussed again.
For detailed information concerning catapult
retraction-engine
systems,
consult
the
catapult
operations instructions for the type of catapult on your
ship.
Dynamometer
A dynamometer is an apparatus for measuring force
or energy. It commonly embodies a spring to be
compressed, and an index (scale) to show the amount of
tension obtained. Figure 4-84 illustrates a common type
of dynamometer.
For the ABEs, the most common use of the
dynamometer is made by the catapult crew. Part of the
daily checklist on all catapults is a check of the bridle
tensioning force that the bridle tensioning system is
supplying. This check is made by anchoring one end of
a dynamometer to the deck, aft of the catapult, with a
cable and securing the other end of the dynamometer to
the catapult shuttle with a cable. The bridle tension
system is then activated, and the amount of horizontal
force it is putting out is read on the scale of the
dynamometer. It must be within the limits specified in
the applicable maintenance manual or Service Bulletin
for the type of catapult concerned.
Figure 4-84.—Dynamometer tensioner check.
Launching Operations
Catapult launching operations must be according to
instructions contained in appendix A and section IV of
the CV NATOPS MANUAL.
Aircraft may be launched under emergency
conditions, when required minimum cylinder elongation
is not attainable, by increasing the wind-over-deck
requirements as specified in the applicable Aircraft
Launching Bulletins.
After performing the no-load test launching
procedures, prepare the catapult for normal launching
operations as follows:
1. Complete the preoperational inspection list for
each station according to applicable MRCs.
2. Turn on the interlock between adjacent
catapults.
3. Check for proper operation of the positive lock
grab.
4. Ensure that the gauge for the fluid regulator
valve to the solenoid-operated bridle tensioning valves
reads the required pressure.
5. Bring the steam pressure in the steam receivers
up to normal launching requirements, as applicable for
a particular type of aircraft.
4-67
