Hydraulic Launch Coasters use pressurized oil to propel a coaster train to high speeds in a matter of seconds. Intamin pioneered Hydraulic Launch Technology in the early 2000's allowing coasters to reach acceleration and top speeds people in the past never knew was possible. In the early 2000s, Hydraulic Launch Coasters set many world records for speed, height, and acceleration. Intamin calls Hydraulic Launch Coasters, Accelerator Coasters.
How does Hydraulic Work?[]
Hydraulic Pumps rapidly pump Hydraulic Fluid into several accumulators with two seperate compartments divided by a piston. As the fluid is pumped into one compartment, compressed gas forms in the other. When the pressurized fluid is released, it drives several motors which in turn spin a large winch drum. The winch rotates contracting a cable attached to a catch car under the train. When the cable contracts, the train is pulled rapidly along the launch track and returns to the station while the train completes the curcuit.
History[]
Xcelerator - The First Hydraulic Launch Coaster
The first roller coaster that used the Hydraulic Launch System is Xcelerator at Knott's Berry Farm.
During testing for Xcelerator, they tested speeds of a whopping 117 mph for another roller coaster called Top Thrill Dragster at Cedar Point which has top speeds on 120 mph. Famous Rides like Kingda Ka & Formula Rossa which is the fastest ride in the world also use Hydraulic Launch Systems.
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