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45 results for “launch”

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How launches work
How launches work
LIM, LSM, hydraulic — different ways to shove a train from rest to serious speed.
elements
Launch physics overview
Launch physics overview
Motors and hydraulics add speed fast — different systems trade acceleration shape, noise, and reliability.
physics
Launched coasters
Launched coasters
Motors or hydraulics replace or supplement the lift hill for rapid acceleration.
coaster types
Flat rides vs roller coasters
Flat rides vs roller coasters
Not everything with a lift hill is a “coaster.” Flat rides spin, swing, and launch without a continuous circuit.
coaster types
Flywheel launches
Flywheel launches
Store energy in a spinning mass, then dump it into the train in one burst — classic hydraulic acceleration feel.
physics
Hydraulic and pneumatic launches
Hydraulic and pneumatic launches
Catch cars, cables, and pressure vessels — mechanical launches with a signature kick.
physics
Intamin — launches and record chasing
Intamin — launches and record chasing
German builder behind many hydraulic launches, gigas, and intense accelerator layouts.
culture
Linear induction motors (LIM)
Linear induction motors (LIM)
Alternating magnetic fields shove the train without touching it — the workhorse of many modern launches.
physics
Linear synchronous motors (LSM)
Linear synchronous motors (LSM)
Timed magnetic pulses pull the train along — precise and common on multi-launch coasters.
physics
Potential and kinetic energy
Potential and kinetic energy
Lift hills store energy; drops and launches convert it into speed — friction steals some along the way.
physics
Premier Rides — launches and multi-pass insanity
Premier Rides — launches and multi-pass insanity
Sky Rocket II clones and custom launched layouts with repeated elements.
culture
Speed vs height — which matters more?
Speed vs height — which matters more?
Tall lifts do not guarantee top speed; launches can be fast without being huge.
specs
Friction, drag, and why speed drops
Friction, drag, and why speed drops
Air and wheels steal energy — designers account for it on every hill after the first drop.
physics
G-forces on coasters (basics)
G-forces on coasters (basics)
Positive, negative, and lateral — three directions of force that define ride feel.
specs
Gravity on roller coasters
Gravity on roller coasters
The train is always falling — track shape decides which direction that pull becomes force on your body.
physics
How to read coaster stats
How to read coaster stats
Height, speed, length, and inversions each tell a different story. Combine them instead of ranking on one number.
specs
Inversions and common elements
Inversions and common elements
Loops, corkscrews, and immelmans are building blocks. Knowing the names helps you predict the ride feel.
elements
Tire drives and friction lifts
Tire drives and friction lifts
Rubber wheels that push the train — common in stations and some boost hills.
physics
Train mass and momentum
Train mass and momentum
Heavier trains carry more momentum — loads and empty seats can change feel slightly.
physics
Why manufacturer names appear on specs
Why manufacturer names appear on specs
B&M, Intamin, Vekoma, and others have recognizable design fingerprints regular riders learn to spot.
culture