Pneumatic catapult that launches stunt performers into the air – creates realistic impact reactions for hits, explosions, or supernatural throws.
What is an Air Ram?
An Air Ram is a pneumatic catapult for stunt performers. It uses compressed air to explosively propel a platform or piston upwards, launching the performer several meters into the air – for realistic hit reactions and explosion effects.
Principle of Operation
| Component | Function |
|---|---|
| Pressure Chamber | Stores compressed air |
| Piston/Platform | Accelerates the performer |
| Quick-Release Valve | Instantaneous pressure release |
| Control Unit | Timing control |
| Dampening System | Smooth retraction |
Technical Specifications (Typical)
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Pressure | 5–15 bar |
| Piston Stroke Height | 30–60 cm |
| Performer Launch Height | 1–5 meters |
| Acceleration | Extremely high (milliseconds) |
| Trigger Time | 20–50 ms |
Applications
| Effect | Description |
|---|---|
| Explosion Reaction | Performer "flies" from blast wave |
| Impact Hit | Hit by weapon/vehicle |
| Supernatural | Supernatural throw |
| Crash | Impact simulation |
| Fall | Controlled fall with rotation |
Safety Measures
| Measure | Description |
|---|---|
| Landing Area | Crash mats, airbags |
| Rigging | Often combined with wires |
| Body Protection | Padding under costume |
| Rehearsals | Many takes without camera |
| Medic | On-set medical personnel present |
| Stunt Coordinator | Experienced supervisor |
Difference from Similar Equipment
| Device | Function |
|---|---|
| Air Ram | Launches upwards/diagonally |
| Air Ratchet | Pulls away horizontally/quickly |
| Air Cannon | Only air blast (no performer contact) |
| Trampoline | Performer jumps themselves |
| Descender | Controlled downward fall |
Typical Workflow
| Phase | Activity |
|---|---|
| Planning | Effect design with coordinator |
| Setup | Position ram, test pressure |
| Landing Area | Lay out mats/airbags |
| Rehearsal | Without performer, then gradually |
| Gradual Increase | Step-by-step full pressure |
| Filming | With camera, full power |
Combination with Other Techniques
| Combination | Effect |
|---|---|
| + Wire Work | Controlled trajectory |
| + Pyro | Real explosion (timing!) |
| + High-Speed | Slow-motion recording |
| + CGI Enhancement | Digital augmentation |
Cost (Approximate)
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| Air Ram (Purchase) | €5,000–€20,000 |
| Rental/Day | €500–€1,500 |
| Stunt Coordinator | €800–€2,000/day |
| Safety Package | Variable |
Risks and Prevention
| Risk | Prevention |
|---|---|
| Mislanding | Large landing area |
| Excessive Force | Gradual increase |
| Timing Errors | Rehearsals, rehearsals, rehearsals |
| Equipment Failure | Regular maintenance |
Today
Air Rams remain fundamental for action productions. Despite CGI advancements, they create authentic physical reactions that are difficult to replicate digitally – the moment a body truly flies has a veracity that audiences feel.
More in the lexikon
Related terms
Stunts · Technique
Air Ratchet
Pneumatic cable-pull system that yanks performers horizontally at high speed – creates…
Sfx · Technique
Air Cannon
Stunts · Terms
Stunt Coordinator
Stunts · Terms
Wire Work
Stunts · Equipment
Descender / Rope Descender / Rappel Device
Mechanical friction device that controls the descent speed of suspended performers…