Sensors attached to the top of the coaster monitor the pressure and relay information back down to the control booth. The system compares the last three runs to previous data, ensuring that the train will make it over the hill and throughout the track regardless of the varying weight of its passengers.
It has a top speed of mph with a foot drop and carries passengers around a 1. Its hydraulic launch system was inspired by the devices that launch fighter jets off aircraft carriers. Next time you climb on a roller coaster, whether it uses a chain, electromagnets or hydraulics to launch you toward perceived oblivion, take a moment to think about how they work and what it takes to send hundreds of pounds of train and passengers toward the sky and back again.
NTS uses cookies to optimize and personalize your browsing experience on its website. By continuing to browse, you consent to the use of cookies on our websites. June 18, Hydraulic Roller Coasters Everyone loves the thrill that we experience on a roller coaster. How Do Roller Coasters Work? Four basic components are included in each and every hydraulic roller coaster launch system: Hydraulic motors, which provide the power to move the car forward Winch, which attaches the hydraulic motors to the catch car Catch car, which runs in a grove on the center of the launch track beneath the passenger car Return cable, which returns the catch car to its starting point How do hydraulics work to provide a mind-blowing experience?
The last three systems — flywheel, catapult and friction wheel— are the least common varieties of roller coaster launch systems. They are less common choices because they tend to use more energy than the other three options.
They also work in different ways :. These various systems use physics in different ways to get roller coasters moving. Roller coaster engineers do not use them as often as other varieties because they do not produce as much power.
The power that they do create is not considered efficient either because they require a lot of energy to operate. The ratio between the power they need and what they provide does not make them the best roller coaster systems out there. The three more popular launch systems use forces and equipment that are a bit more complex. Narrow down your choices by comparing pneumatic, hydraulic and electromagnetic roller coaster launch systems.
These standard roller coaster launch systems propel roller coaster trains forward as the ride begins in various ways. In general, they work as follows :. The most common launch systems are popular for a reason. They each come with their own strengths but, as with any mechanical system, there are the occasional drawbacks.
Certain varieties within these different launch mechanism categories have their positives and negatives. As we've described above, an electromagnetic system uses forces of repulsion and attraction to launch a roller coaster.
There are two different options under this category:. Either variety of electromagnetic propulsion will produce a smooth launch. But no matter which electromagnetic system you choose, you'll need a lot of energy to run them. Variations between pneumatic and hydraulic mechanisms depend on where you get your equipment.
Any roller coaster launch system requires power to operate. It's just a matter of how much they use compared to how much they yield. You should compare pneumatic, hydraulic and electromagnetic launch systems as you choose a mechanical setup for a roller coaster. All of the systems above can be responsible for keeping riders safe, but you have to choose the best one for the ride.
When selecting a system for a roller coaster , consider:. While passengers' safety is the top priority, it's not the only consideration when designing, updating or repairing a roller coaster. Think about the longevity of the product you choose and potential future repairs or replacements. Will the system you select always work for the ride? Will it be in the budget to conduct major repairs or replacements? If you choose the right system, you'll realize a high-quality product is the answer to how to prevent roller coaster accidents.
Installing the right mechanism on a ride will make it exciting and safe for passengers. For faster, smoother and quieter acceleration, a hydraulic system may be your best option.
Once you've chosen the type of system, you should also carefully consider the provider. Selecting the right manufacturer for your machinery will help you avoid hydraulic cylinder failure.
The main issue with particular hydraulic systems is the number of moving parts they require. More moving parts in a mechanism means:.
You can ensure that you avoid these issues with proper maintenance. Without it, you could experience problems caused by:. Issues with hydraulic systems will impact roller coaster safety. While you should regularly maintain your mechanical systems, choosing a high-quality system will give you peace of mind. Choose locking hydraulic cylinders as they can prevent accidents. Locking hydraulic cylinders are versatile and built to last. Hydraulic components will be the best choice for your roller coaster, whether you use them in launch or safety systems.
You also have to make the right choice when choosing a particular hydraulic mechanism and locking components. Since the actuator controls the movement of a system, you want the best in the industry. Your riders will be safe at launch or other parts of their journey where you use our systems according to specifications.
We offer a variety of custom configurations that suit any application's needs with high stiffness and zero backlash. Our high-quality parts are versatile and can even be used in confined spaces. When you choose a hydraulic system for roller coasters, riders' safety is the top priority.
We understand the risk of accidents on any machinery that requires a hydraulic system, and we want to provide the safest option for engineers. When operated according to specifications, our hydraulic actuators and cylinders keep riders and workers safe.
We work hard to create a system with unique fail-safe properties to ensure secure operation. Contact us online or give us a call at if you're ready to see what our safe hydraulic locking systems can do for you. Hydraulic Vs. When the pressurized fluid is released, it drives several motors 3 which in turn spin a large winch drum 4. The winch rotates contracting a cable attached to a catch car under the train 5. As the cable contracts, the train is pulled rapidly along the launch track. The catch car disengages at the end of the launch track and returns to the station while the train completes the circuit.
Xcelerator opened on June 22, and was designed by Intamin.
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