An Atlas Copco air compressor contributes to the safety of hundreds of thousands of thrill-seekers keen to test their nerves on Wet ‘n’ Wild’s newest attraction, the Surfrider.

With air-operated gates and platforms, the Surfrider requires a reliable source of air for its safe and effective operation. This is where Atlas Copco comes into play. Known for its quality and reliability, their oil-injected screw compressor offers the perfect match to the unique mechanics of the Surfrider.

“The air-operated mechanical system needs a very clean and reliable air system and that is why we went with Atlas Copco,” explains Warner Village Group Projects Manager, Ken Spiller.

“There is no question that the brand is renowned for its quality and reliability. With so many patrons to look after we need to know we can get through day-by-day operations with no dramas.”

Wet ‘n’ Wild is the third most attended water park in the world, with over one million visitors through its gates last year. The Surfrider is building on this popularity, as visitors’ que up to ride the giant surfboard as it plummets 30 metres through wild water sprays. 

“Imagine travelling up to 70 km/h as hundreds of litres of water are pumped at you while dropping into the stomach of the U-shaped coaster,” describes Ken.

He explains that because the surfboard vehicle has a wider section in the middle compared to the nose and tail, curved platforms were needed on either side for patrons to safely get on and off the surfboard. “That is why the platform sections are air operated and have to be fully retractable in a swing down fashion to give clearance to the board.”

“The platform mechanicals and safety gates are all air-operated so when people load onto the surfboard, the gates on the nose and tail end prevent people falling off the edge.”

Apart from the safety and reliability of their new compressor, Ken was also impressed by its compact design. He had limited space to put the compressor so its small size and diminutive footprint was a major benefit.

Its mounting on top of the receiver is another plus in its design. This brings the compressor off the ground which means it won’t suck in moisture, a feature made all the more important by the wet environment of the Surfrider.

Importantly, the compressor’s engine is super fuel-efficient, a feature that Atlas Copco is renowned for across its product line. Its high air delivery for low power use is testimony to the ongoing innovation that goes into the design.

“We are constantly improving and evolving our compressors,” explains Duncan Vaughan, Sales Engineer with Atlas Copco Compressors and Generators. “Having been in business in Australia for more than 50 years we are committed to working with our customers to deliver a strong product backed up by ongoing service and support.”

Ken agrees that Atlas Copco have always come through for him in the many years he has worked with them across the Warner Village Theme Park chain. He was impressed with their product strength and service support from the start and now uses them exclusively across the Movie World, Sea World, Paradise Country and Wet ‘n’ Wild parks.

“The first time I needed a compressor, the Atlas Copco representative made two units available immediately and the back-up service was exemplary. Getting spare parts or maintenance has never been an issue.

“I’m an Atlas Copco fan; it’s hard not to be when experience shows they always give their very best!”