From the car and cabin to the controller and drive unit, there are many parts that comprise an elevator. Whether you’re looking to install a brand-new elevator for your home or need service on an existing elevator for your business, it’s helpful to know the various components of an elevator and how they operate.
While each elevator is designed in a different way, they all have a similar makeup and layout.
Mobility Features
In terms of mobility features, there are many components to be aware of. The most obvious is the car and cabin, but there are other components as well.
Car or Cabin
The car or cabin is the main part of the elevator. For passenger elevators, this is for humans and pets, while for freight elevators, this is for cargo and other large items. The size of the car varies by model, intended usage, and location.
Door
This is where passengers enter and exit the car. The two main types of elevator doors include manual and automatic. Whereas passengers or elevator operators have to open manual doors, automatic doors automatically open through the use of electricity.
Cable
Designed to support and pull the car, the cable connects the car to a controller that transfers power and signal information. This multi-conductor wire is constantly in motion.
Hoistway
This is what moves an elevator up and down. Located in the gaps between the walls and floors, the hoistway ensures the elevator moves smoothly and safely.
Traction Machine
Also known as the elevator machine, the traction machine features a motor, brake, drive sheave, and machine bed plate. It’s designed to pull the cabin up and down using ropes. Its motor moves the pulley shaft in order for the cabin to move in the intended direction within the hoistway.
Counterweight
Elevator cars need to be balanced by heavy counterweights, which weigh the same as a car when loaded by half. This works like a seesaw. For example, the counterweight goes down when the elevator goes up. This reduces the strain placed on the cables, which leads to the safe operation of the elevator.
Electricity Features
When it comes to electricity features, there are many components that power it, such as controllers and drive units.
Controller and Drive Unit
The controller is designed to control manual or automatic elevators, and it is located in the machine room. It basically controls all the functions of the elevator. The drive unit, which is part of the control system, dictates the up-and-down movement of the elevator. It is comprised of the motor, control system and drive system.
Safety Features
Every elevator must have sufficient safety features, from the guide rails to the buffers.
Guide Rails
These are T-shaped components that are placed throughout the elevator shaft, installed vertically in the hoistway. These rails act as guides, directing travel for the car and stopping it at designated floors.
Buffers
The buffer prevents possible accidents and injuries. For instance, the buffers can stop a descending car by controlling its kinetic energy.
Safety Brake
This brake is in place to prevent the elevator from crashing. If a cable were to snap, this integral safety system will prevent malfunctions. A spring-loaded mechanism at the top of each car has hooks attached. If the cable broke, the hooks would spring outward and jam themselves into the guide rail’s metal teeth.
Contact Mowrey Elevator
Now that you know about the parts of an elevator and how they operate, we have all the parts you need for your lift. Browse our online catalog and contact us with any questions. We look forward to hearing from you!