Top thrill, tough challenge

Aug. 7, 2003
The world's tallest, fastest roller coaster, Cedar Point's Top Thrill Dragster, has been anything but thrilling lately.

The coaster, which shoots riders from 0 to 120 mph in 4 sec up a 420-ft hill, has spent most of the three months since its debut grounded by mechanical problems. Powering the dragsterlike trains up the mammoth hill is a proprietary hydraulic-launch system built by Swiss ride manufacturer Intamin AG (For details of how it works, see Machine Design, 05/08/03, pg. 52). Engineers from Intamin and Cedar Point, Sandusky, Ohio, have been working around the clock trying to fix various problems, which have included a faulty valve, broken cable, and electrical problems in the launch system that kept it from firing off. Cedar Point hopes to have the ride up and running on a regular basis soon, but if problems persist, reports say the launch system may need to be reworked.

Sponsored Recommendations

March 31, 2025
Unlike passive products - made of simple carbon springs - the bionic prostheses developed by Revival Bionics are propulsive, equipped with a motor and an artificial Achilles tendon...
March 31, 2025
Electric drives are a key technology for the performance of machines, robots, and power tools. Download this guide for an introduction to high-quality mechatronic drive systems...
March 31, 2025
Discover the world of maxon drive technology: motors, gearheads, sensors, controllers, and accessories. Configure your drive system online, including all relevant product and ...
March 31, 2025
Share current page XSun designs and manufactures a drone that is both energy-independent and can make its own decisions, for fully-automated missions. The company needed reliable...

Voice your opinion!

To join the conversation, and become an exclusive member of Machine Design, create an account today!