Since its own launch in 2009 WhiteWater’s ‘AquaLaunch’ has been propelling thrill-seekers into a range of waterslides around the world – and the 100th capsule has just been built.

The AquaLaunch dramatically sends riders into WhiteWater waterslides such as the AquaDrop, the Flatline Loop and the AquaLoop and there are now installations in more than 70 countries.

Mike Genovese, operations manager of electrical and mechanical assembly at WhiteWater, said the launch capsule had evolved significantly since 2009, with the quality and durability of the launch parts upgraded while the aesthetic design has also been updated to be more visually appealing and streamlined.

Major innovations have included updating the fiberglass trapdoor to a clear Lexan trapdoor – made from polycarbonate sheets that have superior impact resistance, durability and virtually unbreakable strength – that is free swinging to reduce noise and eliminate the need for expensive shock absorbers. The AquaLaunch has also become more automated with the addition of a push button operated door replacing the old, manually operated one.

WhiteWater keeps manufacturing of the capsules local to its British Columbia, Canada base due to its complexity and specialised nature. This allows for close monitoring and quick response from engineers and managers in the event that issues arise during the production process.

The company said there were currently a number of outstanding orders for the AquaLaunch, with seven from the Zhengzhou Yinji Kaifeng Waterpark in Henan, China alone.