Overview

This project has been retired to make way for future projects

The roller coaster, Torque XLC, was the longest project I have ever completed. From early design stages to final product, this project took around eight months. This ride features an air compressed launch, airtime bunny hill, and a zero-gravity spike. Everything was first designed and rendered in Fusion 360, which allowed for me to see what it would look like completed. The pieces were then cut using a CNC router, resulting in a precise construction. These pieces were then assembled into their various sections and PVC pipe was fitted to the track profile by heating it with a heat gun. The launch was the most challenging part because of all the moving parts. I chose an air compressed launch because of the quick acceleration they can provide. I designed the launch mechanisms by hand, not knowing if it would work. At peak operating pressure, this system is able to generate over 1000 pounds of force within a fraction of a second. This allows for the car to be accelerated to over twenty miles an hour in under half a second. More schematics and details about this launch can be found below. 

For a more detailed explanation of the ride mechanics, please check out my recent blog post about it.

Why I made this

Since I was young, I have always been fascinated with roller coasters. Over the years, I have been to many parks and been on many rides. In the winter of 2020, I decided I should build one for myself, so I can ride one whenever I want to.