Commercial elevators
All About Commercial Elevators
A commercial space having multiple floors requires by law a strategy to ensure all areas are accessible to the public of every ability. This is when commercial elevators come into the picture. An elevator is a vertical transportation device which transports people and goods between floors of a multi-story building. Elevators are either powered by electric motors or fluids that work under the principle of hydraulics. Commercial elevators can also be custom-designed to fit the décor and spatial considerations of any setting and are engineered to provide a safe and secure ride for anyone who finds it challenging to use the stairs.
Elevators are a creation for the benefit of humanity. Having an elevator installed essentially means enormous assistance in simplifying life. People, especially those who are disabled and unable to use stairs, have access to every floor in a commercial space. Elevators are also lesser in volume than a flight of stairs, thereby saving space considerably. Many accidents can be prevented by using elevators instead of stairs, especially in the case of children tripping over rails or frailer elders moving up or down the stairs.
Commercial elevators are available according to various classification such as design, hoist mechanisms, controlling devices and operating modes. These elevators can be either passenger lifts to transport people or freight elevators to carry goods. Hoist mechanisms which drive elevators can be either traction elevators powered by electric motors or by using a conventional piston moving within a cylinder. One of the most important designs is the ‘Machine Roomless Lift’ where most of the components fit within shaft, thereby creating more usable space.
A typical elevator is controlled by a panel with buttons for navigation. Modern destination control systems let passenger know which car to wait for. While conventional passenger elevators are well known to the people, there are a number of other types of elevating devices – to name a few, vertical and inclined platform lifts and stair lifts that are more specific to accessibility and obstacle free path design.
Maintenance and safety of an elevator is of utmost importance as it involves considerable machinery traveling at high speed with passengers inside. Over a period of time, the performance can decline. Maintenance includes cleanliness of elevator cars, machine rooms and machines. Essential lubrication of suspension and rails and regular inspection of electric appliances, switches, indicators and alarms are other aspects of elevator maintenance. More importantly, the responsible party should also review the machine’s mechanical current state, including gears, brakes, ropes and bearings.
Modern elevators are not just a device to move people over multiple floors. Art connoisseurs are exploring their perception and transforming elevator interiors into spaces radiating creativity and warmth. Glass paneled doors, plastic laminates, hand-crafted wood and etched stainless steel interiors are employed to enhance the aesthetics. Ultra-modern commercial elevators have seen ornate and intriguing designs like aquariums, pyramids, boats, oasis and transparent sky walks.