The Ballistic Tower is yet another variation of the very popular Intamin free fall rides. Four different ride effects are provided throughout the ride, although. other effects are possible. The 20-passenger vehicle has a unique ride effect created by shooting the vehicle to the top of the ride using special pneumatic cylinders.
At the top of the ride, the vehicle is stopped and then suddenly shot downwards. Alternatively, the vehicle can be released and go into normal freefall. The vehicle descends at speeds of up to 20 m/sec (72 km/h). At a certain point the air pressure builds up in the air cylinders which creates a braking effect and bounces the vehicle and its passengers back up before dropping them back down to the bottom of the ride. The vehicles follow a ballistic trajectory, giving the ride its' name. The vehicle comes to a rest using Intamin's patented magnetic braking system. This braking system is also used at the top of the ride as an emergency brake in the unlikely event of the vehicle "overshooting" on its' initial launch. |
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