Our “Danube Winch” – A World First
Since autumn 2021, we have been operating our new glider launch winch. It is the world’s first battery-electric winch that does not require a power connection during flight operations.
Equipped with a 180 kWh lithium iron phosphate battery, it can perform around 100 launches before the winch needs to be plugged in again. For us, that is enough for more than a full day of flying. The impressive towing performance of the ESW-2B is provided by an almost maintenance-free industrial-standard three-phase asynchronous motor, delivering more than 200 kW of power.
Thanks to automatic cable tension control, launches are safe, powerful, and optimally adapted to each type of aircraft. We also use lightweight synthetic cables, allowing maximum release heights.
The Advantages Are Clear
- Power and torque available from the start
- Safety-optimized launch control
- Low energy consumption
- Reduced maintenance requirements
- Long-lasting, cobalt-free batteries
- No need to install additional copper power lines
- Renewable energy sources
Winch Launching
Winches are used to launch gliders, which do not have their own propulsion system, by pulling them into the air. The principle is similar to a child flying a kite while running across a field. Instead of running, the cable is wound onto a drum.
With a winch cable 1.5 km long, gliders can reach heights of around 500–800 metres above the ground in this way. Using only thermals and wind, they can remain airborne for many hours and cover distances of more than 1,000 km.