Residential Elevator Lifting Systems
Residential elevator lifting technology has improved dramatically over the years. While the basic mechanicals has stayed the same – the control systems and safety features have improved. Lifeway Mobility is an experienced elevator installer and has installed hundreds of residential elevators. Our full product line includes all four elevator lifting systems.
Hydraulic
- Hydraulic oil is pumped into a cylinder which builds up pressure and allows the elevator to travel up.
- In order for the elevator to travel down (lower), hydraulic oil is simply removed from the cylinder.
- The speed of this drive is generally maxed out at 40 fpm.
- The machinery must be located in a separate machine room.
Advantages:
- Smooth and quiet operation
- Flexibility with remote machine room capability
Disadvantages:
- Equipment placement
- Hydraulic fluid concerns
Winding Drum
- The winding drum is the original form of elevator drive technology.
- A large drum powered by a motor spools aircraft cable which is connected to the elevator sling assembly.
- The cable is either wound or unwound to raise or lower the elevator.
- Machinery can be located in a separate space or above the rail with enough overhead space.
- Size of the drum depends on how much travel is required.
- Its speed varies from 30 to 40 feet per minute.
Advantages:
- Least cost
- Low maintenance
Disadvantages:
- Equipment placement
Geared Counterweight
- A motor located at the top of the hoist-way pulls elevator up and down.
- The elevator cab weight is offset by a stack of weights; between the rails is a counter-weight, which reduces work for the motor.
- This system is more energy efficient.
Advantages:
- Equipment located in the hoist-way
- Green elevator
Disadvantages:
- Requires greater overhead space and access hatch
Gearless Counterweight
- Similar design to the geared traction design; however, it uses a gearless motor that provides a reduction in noise, more energy efficiency, and a faster speed.
- This drive technology is the newest to hit home elevators.
- A similar roller technology used in full blown passenger elevators guides the car up and down the rails instead of guide shoes to provide an even quieter ride.
- This type of elevator drive consumes less energy than any other drive system. The elevator consumes about 6 amps of power in the up direction.
Advantages:
- Superb ride quality
- Quiet
Disadvantages:
- Expensive – 1.5X
- Requires greater overhead and access hatch