Three Ways to Save Money from Elevator Modernization
Elevator modernization can save you money, increase the value of your property, improve safety, comply with local codes, save energy and increase the flow of traffic in your building. In this post, we’ll cover three specific types of elevator modernization and show how they can save you money.
Motor Drive Replacement
Earlier versions of motor generator technologies converted AC building power to DC power in order to supply a DC hoist motor. At that time, DC motors had superior torque control over AC motors. Today, modern AC digital drives eliminate the need to convert from AC to DC power and provide a number of advantages:
- Significant energy savings are seen because power is only consumed while the elevator is running.
- Under the right conditions, regenerative drives can be utilized which can actually contribute power back to the building.
- Less heat is generated, which requires less work from the building’s cooling systems.
These old, DC drive systems consume over 40,000 kWh of electricity annually. Modernizing these older, inefficient elevators can save an average of 72% in energy costs.
DC Motor Replacement
Conversion of a DC motor to an AC motor is typically done in conjunction with the drive as well. Replacing the motor provides additional cost savings:
- Better power factor correction lowers electricity bills.
- Higher efficiency uses less energy.
- Heat reduction lowers amount of cooling required in the building.
Replacing DC motors with their modern, AC equivalent can reduce BYU loading by 45%.
Smart Controllers
Modern elevator digital controllers use statistical information and advanced algorithms that provide optimum performance and higher energy efficiency. This is done by continuously scanning all activity and reassigning calls as necessary in order to reduce wait time and energy consumption. New hoist motors and modern controllers can typically reduce electrical usage by 60%.
Other Considerations
In addition to the cost savings, there are other benefits to an elevator modernization program. Passenger ride quality is enhanced through smoother acceleration and deceleration and minimal noise and vibration. These newer systems also produce fewer airborne pollutants and, therefore, require less frequent cleaning and improved air quality. Finally, these newer motors, drives and controllers generally have smaller footprints, freeing up valuable building space.