How Do Drop Towers Slow Down

Hydraulic Cylinders: The hydraulic braking system of an adrenaline drop tower carnival attraction includes one or more hydraulic cylinders filled with hydraulic fluid or another working medium. When deceleration is needed, the cabin is connected to these hydraulic cylinders.

Control Valves: Hydraulic control valves are used to regulate the amount of fluid entering and leaving the cylinder, controlling the descent speed of the cabin.

Pressure Dissipation: During braking, the weight of the cabin of the gyro drop ride forces the piston to push the hydraulic fluid through a narrow opening, creating resistance. This resistance slows down the movement of the piston, which in turn slows the descent of the cabin.

Energy Conversion: The kinetic energy of the descending cabin is converted into pressure energy in the hydraulic fluid, which is then transformed into heat energy through the resistance in the control valve and absorbed by the system.

Smooth Deceleration: By precisely controlling the flow of hydraulic fluid, a smooth and continuous deceleration can be achieved until the free fall tower’s cabin safely stops at the bottom.

Emergency Braking: If necessary, the resistance in the hydraulic fluid can be rapidly increased to stop the cabin quickly in emergency situations.