The Different Types of Elevators

Elevators form an integral part of our lives. In our society, which is replete with sky-high buildings, elevators are not only symbolic of luxury but an absolute necessity. Nowadays, there are various types of elevators available in the market, with each of them designed to suit a particular requirement.

Elevators can broadly be classified into two categories, which are mentioned below-

Traction Elevators

Traction elevators are the most commonly used and highly reliable elevators, in which the car is raised and lowered by steel ropes or belts on a pulley system. In comparison to other elevators, they use lesser energy and ride smoother. They are primarily designed to serve mid-to high-rise buildings and are driven by alternating current (AC) or direct current (DC) electric motors. They are further classified into three types-

• Geared Traction Elevators: These use a large-sized motor with a reducer and gears.
• Gearless Traction Elevators: These use permanent magnets for their operations.
• Machine-Room-Less (MRL) Traction Elevators: These elevators do not have a dedicated machine room above the elevator shaft.

Hydraulic Elevators

Hydraulic elevators are highly efficient elevators that are powered by a hydraulic jack, which are fluid-driven pistons travelling inside a cylinder. These elevators use the compression of fluids to generate movement. The sole objective of using hydraulic elevators is to transport heavy industrial loads such as machinery and other equipment. These reliable elevators are quicker and less expensive to install and occupy much less space in a building. They can further be divided into the following types-

• Holed Hydraulic Elevators: In holed hydraulic elevators, the hydraulic cylinders are placed inside a drilled hole.
• Hydraulic Elevators devoid of holes: This type of elevator doesn’t make use of drilled holes.
• Roped Hydraulic Elevators: Roped hydraulic elevators use cables and a piston attached to a sheave for transporting the load.
• Machine Room-Less (MRL) Hydraulic Elevators: In these types of elevators, the hydraulic lift mechanisms are located in the hoist-way instead of a separate machine room.

Further, with the advancements in technology, the costs involved in the manufacture of elevators have reduced considerably, making them quite affordable. Thus, you can install them easily without worrying much about your budget.