Types of Service Elevators
Hydraulic Service Elevators
Hydraulic elevators are powered by the compression of fluids that move the cab. As service elevators, hydraulic systems have a higher loading capacity than passenger elevators.
Engineering Characteristics:
- Low to medium-rise buildings (typically less than 60’ of travel)
- Low to medium-speed (200 ft./min. or less)
Hydraulic Elevator Classifications:
- Holed: Hydraulic cylinders are placed in a drilled hole so that the car of the elevator can be mounted on a piston for travel. This class allows up to 60’ of travel.
- Holeless: A drilled hole isn’t necessary for holeless hydraulic systems, making it an ideal option for building where drilling isn’t possible. However, this class isn’t recommended for more than 40’ of travel.
Traction Service Elevators
Traction elevators use overhead hoisting machinery, like steel ropes or belts on a pulley system. The loading capacity for traction service elevators are also higher than for passenger elevators.
Engineering Characteristics:
- Medium to high-rise buildings (typically more than 60’ of travel)
- Medium to high-speed (200 ft./min. or more)
Machine Room-Less Service Elevators
Machine room-less (MRL) service elevators can be either traction or hydraulic and do not require a machine room. This allows for more space and uses less energy to start and run the elevator.
Engineering Characteristics:
- Medium to high-rise (50’-300’ of travel)
- Medium to high-speed (200-500 ft./min.)
- Can be used for nearly any application
- Offer superior ride quality and reliable operations
- Provides significant space and cost savings
Space-Saving Benefits:
- Requires a small, efficient machine to power the car
- Reduces overhead mechanical structural support (depending on application)
- Need for an external machine room is eliminated in favor of a small controller room
- No penthouse required above the roof level
Cost-Saving Benefits:
- Long life cycle of equipment
- Reduced operational costs compared to traditional designs
- Simple installation and maintenance
- Reliable, fully integrated system
