amusement ride companies | SUNHONG Guide

Choosing the Right Amusement Ride Company: Top 5 Questions Answered

Selecting the right amusement ride company is a critical decision for any amusement park, fairground, or entertainment venue. The safety, quality, and reliability of your rides directly impact your visitors' experience and your business's reputation. Here are five of the most frequently asked questions by those searching for amusement ride companies, answered with professional knowledge:

1. What Safety Standards and Certifications Should the Amusement Ride Company Adhere To?

Safety is paramount in the amusement ride industry. Any reputable amusement ride company should adhere to stringent international and national safety standards. Key certifications and standards include:

• ASTM International (formerly American Society for Testing and Materials): ASTM F24 is the standard specification for design, manufacturing, operation, and maintenance of amusement rides and devices. Compliance with ASTM F24 indicates a commitment to safety best practices. For example, ASTM F24.1 covers specific design and manufacturing requirements.


• EN 13814 (European Standard): This is the European standard for safety of amusement rides and amusement park machinery. Compliance demonstrates adherence to European safety regulations. It is particularly relevant if you are sourcing rides from or operating in Europe.


• TÜV Certification: TÜV (Technischer Überwachungsverein) is a German organization that provides independent inspection and product certification services. TÜV certification for amusement rides indicates that the ride has been rigorously tested and meets stringent safety requirements.


• National Regulations: Different countries and regions have their own specific safety regulations. For example, in the United States, many states have their own amusement ride safety inspection programs. Companies operating in those regions must comply with the local rules.

Always verify that the company has the necessary certifications and can provide documentation to prove their adherence to these safety standards. Ask for copies of their certifications and audit reports.

2. Can the Amusement Ride Company Customize Rides to Fit My Specific Needs and Theme?

Customization is often a crucial factor, especially for parks with a specific theme or limited space. The ability to customize rides can differentiate your park and enhance the overall visitor experience.

• Theme Integration: A good company should be able to integrate your park's theme into the ride's design, including color schemes, artwork, and even the ride's narrative.


• Size and Capacity Adjustments: Customized rides can be designed to fit within specific space constraints or to accommodate a desired passenger capacity. This often involves modifications to the ride's footprint, height, or seating arrangements.


• Unique Features: Consider adding unique features to your rides to make them stand out. This could involve incorporating interactive elements, special effects (like lighting, sound, or water features), or even creating entirely new ride experiences.

For instance, a water park might request a custom water slide with unique twists and turns, while a family-themed park might want a carousel with hand-painted horses depicting characters from local folklore. When discussing customization, ask for examples of previous custom projects and request detailed design mockups.

3. What is the Company's Experience and Reputation in the Amusement Ride Industry?

Experience and reputation are strong indicators of a company's reliability and expertise. A company with a long track record of successful projects is more likely to deliver a high-quality product and reliable service.

• Years in Business: How long has the company been operating? A longer history often suggests stability and a proven track record.


• Past Projects: Ask for case studies or project portfolios showcasing the company's previous work. Pay attention to the variety and complexity of the projects they have undertaken.


• Client Testimonials and References: Contact previous clients to gather firsthand feedback on the company's performance, reliability, and customer service.


• Industry Recognition: Has the company received any awards or recognition from industry associations? This can indicate a high level of quality and innovation.

For example, companies like Zamperla and Intamin have established reputations for innovative and high-quality rides, and this reputation can be easily confirmed with a quick online search.

4. What Kind of Maintenance, Support, and After-Sales Service Does the Amusement Ride Company Provide?

Proper maintenance and support are essential for ensuring the long-term safety and reliability of your rides. Choose a company that offers comprehensive after-sales service.

• Preventive Maintenance Programs: A well-structured preventive maintenance program can help identify and address potential problems before they lead to downtime or safety issues. These programs typically involve regular inspections, lubrication, and component replacements.


• Spare Parts Availability: Ensure that the company can provide readily available spare parts for your rides. Long lead times for spare parts can result in extended downtime and lost revenue.


• Technical Support: Access to responsive and knowledgeable technical support is crucial for troubleshooting issues and performing repairs. Look for companies that offer 24/7 technical support or on-site assistance.


• Training Programs: The company should provide training programs for your staff on the proper operation, maintenance, and safety procedures for the rides.

Ask the company about their service level agreements (SLAs) and response times for different types of issues. Inquire about the availability of remote diagnostics and support capabilities.

5. What is the Total Cost of Ownership, Including Installation, Operation, and Maintenance?

Consider the total cost of ownership, not just the initial purchase price. Factors that contribute to the overall cost include:

• Installation Costs: These can vary depending on the complexity of the ride and the site conditions. Get a detailed breakdown of the installation costs upfront.


• Operating Costs: Factor in the costs of electricity, water (for water rides), and other resources required to operate the ride.


• Maintenance Costs: This includes the cost of spare parts, labor, and preventive maintenance programs. Ask for estimates of annual maintenance costs.


• Insurance Costs: The type and amount of insurance required can vary depending on the ride and local regulations. Get quotes from insurance providers to estimate your insurance costs.


• Downtime Costs: Lost revenue due to downtime can significantly impact your profitability. Choose reliable rides and vendors to minimize downtime.

For example, a cheaper ride with high maintenance costs may end up being more expensive in the long run than a more expensive ride with lower maintenance costs and higher reliability. Obtain detailed cost estimates and compare the total cost of ownership across different options.

By carefully considering these five questions, amusement park owners and operators can make informed decisions when selecting amusement ride companies, ensuring the safety, quality, and long-term success of their attractions. SUNHONG is committed to providing safe, reliable, and innovative amusement rides, backed by comprehensive support and maintenance services.