Roller coaster wheels might look simple, but they’re actually engineered very carefully depending on the type of coaster.
To learn more, I spoke with Maegan Wallace from Macklin Corporation.
Steel Coaster Wheels
Steel roller coasters often use wheels with a polyurethane coating.
This coating sits on top of an aluminum wheel core.
The polyurethane serves several important purposes:
- Protects the metal wheel
Reduces vibration
Creates a smoother ride experience
Custom Wheel Design
Interestingly, these wheels can also be customized.
Manufacturers can add things like:
- The coaster name
The park name
Special markings or branding
So even something as small as a wheel can be uniquely designed for each ride.
Why the Coating Matters
That polyurethane layer helps absorb vibrations from the steel track.
This is one of the reasons steel coasters can feel extremely smooth compared to wooden rides.
Watch the Reel
https://youtu.be/gxo6_XqX6ok?si=ei4dp7t1zAzCfKyt
Final Thoughts
Roller coaster engineering is full of specialized components that most riders never notice.
But things like wheel coatings make a big difference in the overall ride experience.
Like this? Learn more Coaster FUNdamentals here ->