Ep 3. Nightmare on Main Street

In season 2 episode 3 of Engineering Catastrophes titled Nightmare on Main Street, viewers are introduced to the world of roller coasters and amusement park rides. The episode explores the dangers associated with these thrilling attractions, and the catastrophic consequences that can occur when things go wrong.

The episode begins with a look at the infamous accident that occurred on the Superman Ride of Steel at Six Flags New England in 2004. This accident resulted in the death of a 55-year-old woman and raised many questions about the safety of roller coasters. The episode explores the physics of roller coasters and the extreme forces that riders experience, as well as the measures that engineers take to ensure safety.

The episode then shifts to focus on a more recent incident at the Rye Playland amusement park in New York. In 2019, the park shut down its Dragon Coaster ride after a braking system malfunction caused a car to derail and crash into another car. Fortunately, no one was seriously injured in the incident, but it served as a reminder of the importance of regular safety inspections and maintenance.

The episode also explores the design and construction of amusement park rides, examining the various components that make up these complex machines. Viewers are introduced to the concept of ride dynamics, which involves designing rides to create the optimal balance of thrill and safety. Engineers explain how they use computer models and simulations to test and refine ride designs before construction begins.

The episode then shifts focus to an issue that is common to all types of infrastructure: corrosion. Corrosion can weaken the structural integrity of amusement park rides over time, making them more susceptible to failure. Viewers watch as engineers conduct non-destructive testing to inspect for corrosion in critical components of amusement park rides, and explore the various technological solutions that can be used to prevent corrosion from occurring in the first place.

Finally, the episode looks at the importance of human factors in ensuring ride safety. Workers at amusement parks play a critical role in maintaining and operating rides, and their actions can have a significant impact on ride safety. The episode explores the training and certification processes that these workers must go through, as well as the checks and balances that are in place to ensure that they are following proper procedures.

Overall, season 2 episode 3 of Engineering Catastrophes provides a fascinating look into the world of amusement park rides and the dangers associated with them. Through a combination of expert interviews, computer simulations, and real-world examples, the episode explores the many factors that contribute to ride safety and the measures that engineers take to mitigate risk.