PASSENGER LIFTS – DESIGN & INSTALLATION

PASSENGER LIFTS

GUIDE:

WHAT ARE PASSENGER LIFTS?

Lifts, also known as elevators, have become an integral part of modern buildings, providing convenient and efficient vertical transportation for passengers. Passenger lifts, in particular, are designed to cater to the needs of individuals and small groups of people. Whether you are looking to install a lift in a commercial building, a residential tower, or a public space, there are a variety of options available to meet your specific requirements.

Components of Passenger Lifts

Passenger lifts are made up of several key components, including the cabin, control system, doors, hoisting mechanism, and power supply. Let’s take a closer look at each of these components.

  • Cabin: The cabin is the main passenger compartment of the lift, where individuals enter and exit. It can be designed to meet specific requirements, such as wheelchair accessibility, and can be customized with various finishes and materials.
  • Control System: The control system manages the operation of the lift, ensuring that it moves safely and smoothly from one floor to another. It also provides important safety features, such as emergency stop buttons and alarm systems.
  • Doors: The doors of the lift provide access to the cabin, and are equipped with safety features such as automatic closing, edge protection, and interlocks to prevent the lift from moving if the doors are open.
  • Hoisting Mechanism: The hoisting mechanism is responsible for raising and lowering the lift, and typically consists of a traction or hydraulic drive system.
  • Power Supply: Passenger lifts require a reliable power supply to operate, and can be powered by either electrical or hydraulic systems.

Types of Passenger Lifts

There are several different types of passenger lifts available, each with its own unique features and benefits. Some of the most common types include:

  • Traction Lifts: Traction lifts use a mechanical drive system to raise and lower the lift and are typically the most common type of passenger lift. They are available in a range of sizes and capacities and are suitable for most buildings.
  • Hydraulic Lifts: Hydraulic lifts use a hydraulic drive system to raise and lower the lift and are often used in low-rise buildings where traction lifts are not feasible. They are relatively simple and reliable but can be slower and less efficient than traction lifts.
  • Machine-Room-Less Lifts: Machine-room-less lifts, also known as MRL lifts, are a type of traction lift that do not require a separate machine room. This makes them ideal for buildings with limited space, and they can also be more energy-efficient than traditional traction lifts.
  • Panoramic Lifts: Panoramic lifts are a type of passenger lift that feature floor-to-ceiling glass walls, providing a stunning view of the surrounding area. They are typically used in high-end residential and commercial buildings and can add a touch of luxury to any space.

Safety Features of passenger lifts

Safety is a top priority when it comes to passenger lifts, and there are several key features that are designed to protect passengers and ensure smooth, safe operation. Some of the most important safety features include:

  • Emergency Stop Buttons: Emergency stop buttons allow passengers to quickly stop the lift in the event of an emergency and are typically located in the cabin and at the lift entrance.
  • Alarm Systems: Alarm systems are designed to alert emergency services in the event of an emergency and can be triggered by emergency stop buttons or other safety features.
  • Overload Detection: Overload detection systems are designed to prevent the lift from operating if it is carrying too much weight, helping to prevent accidents and equipment failure.
  • Emergency lighting:  These systems provide lighting in the event of a power outage, allowing passengers to safely exit the lift.
  • Doors Interlocks: Doors interlocks prevent the lift from moving if the doors are open, ensuring that passengers cannot be trapped in the lift.
  • Safety Cables: Safety cables are used to support the lift in the event of a hoisting mechanism failure and provide an additional layer of protection for passengers.

Choosing the right Passenger Lift

When choosing a passenger lift, there are several important factors to consider, including:

  • Building Type: The type of building you are installing the lift in will impact the type of lift that is best suited for your needs. For example, hydraulic lifts may be more suitable for low-rise buildings, while traction lifts are ideal for high-rise buildings.
  • Capacity: The capacity of the lift is an important factor, as it determines how many passengers can be transported at once. Lifts are available in a range of capacities, from small, single-person lifts to larger lifts that can accommodate multiple passengers and wheelchair users.
  • Speed: The speed of the lift is another important factor, as it determines how quickly passengers can be transported from one floor to another. Lifts are available in a range of speeds, from slow hydraulic lifts to high-speed traction lifts.
  • Accessibility: Accessibility is an important consideration for passenger lifts, and includes features such as wheelchair ramps and buttons at an accessible height.
  • Design: The design of the lift can also be a consideration, as it can be customized to match the aesthetic of the building and can include features such as floor-to-ceiling glass walls and custom finishes.

SECTORS USED IN

COMMERCIAL SECTOR

Commercial lifts come in various sizes and designs, from small lifts designed for carrying only a few people to larger lifts designed to carry heavy loads or even vehicles. They are equipped with safety features such as emergency brakes, emergency lights, and interlocks to prevent accidents and ensure the safety of passengers.

Commercial lifts are subject to strict safety regulations and codes. They require regular maintenance and inspections to ensure that they are operating safely and efficiently.

Types of Commercial Lifts we install, maintain & repair:

Passenger lifts
Glass & scenic lifts
Dumbwaiters
Platform lifts
Goods and services lifts
Large vehicle transportation lifts
Dock leveller and scissor lifts
Mobility Lifts
Escalators and Moving Walkways

CORPORATE SECTOR

Corporate sector lifts are elevators designed specifically for use in corporate or business buildings. These lifts are typically larger and faster than other types of lifts, and are designed to handle heavy traffic flow and move people quickly and efficiently between floors.

Corporate sector lifts are often designed to reflect the image and aesthetic of the company they serve, with customizable options for interior finishes, lighting, and branding. They may also be equipped with advanced features such as touchless controls, destination dispatch systems, and smart technology that can anticipate traffic patterns and adjust the lift’s operation accordingly.

In addition to providing efficient transportation between floors, corporate sector lifts may also include features to improve energy efficiency, such as regenerative braking or LED lighting.

Types of Corporate Lifts we install, maintain & repair:

Passenger lifts
Glass & scenic lifts
Dumbwaiters
Platform lifts
Goods and services lifts
Large vehicle transportation lifts
Mobility Lifts
Escalators and Moving Walkways

HOSPITALITY SECTOR

Hospitality lifts are designed specifically for use in hospitality settings such as hotels, resorts, and restaurants. These lifts are designed to provide guests with efficient and convenient transportation between floors while also enhancing their overall experience.

Hospitality lifts can come in various designs and styles, ranging from traditional lifts to more modern and luxurious options. Many hospitality lifts are designed to match the aesthetic and atmosphere of the building they serve, with customizable finishes, lighting, and other features.

Types of Hospitality Lifts we install, maintain & repair:

Passenger lifts
Glass & scenic lifts
Dumbwaiters
Platform lifts
Goods and services lifts
Mobility Lifts
Escalators and Moving Walkways

INDUSTRIAL SECTOR

An industrial lift is a type of lift system designed specifically for use in industrial settings, such as factories, warehouses, and manufacturing facilities. These lifts are designed to move heavy loads and materials between floors or levels of the building, allowing for efficient and safe transportation of goods and equipment.

Industrial lifts can come in various designs and configurations, depending on the specific needs and requirements of the facility. For example, some industrial lifts may be designed for vertical transportation of heavy loads, while others may be designed for horizontal transportation of materials.

Industrial lifts can also come with various safety features, such as interlocks, overload protection, and emergency stop buttons, to ensure safe and reliable operation. They may also have customized finishes or other features to accommodate specific industry needs, such as resistance to corrosive materials or harsh environments.

Types of Industrial Lifts we install, maintain & repair:

Passenger lifts
Dumbwaiters
Platform lifts
Goods and services lifts
Dock leveller and scissor lifts
Mobility Lifts

PUBLIC SECTOR

In the UK, public sector lifts are lift systems used in public sector buildings such as government buildings, hospitals, schools, and other public facilities. These lifts are subject to strict regulations and standards set by the British Standards Institution (BSI), and other regulatory bodies.

Public sector lifts in the UK are required to comply with the Equality Act 2010, which mandates that lifts be accessible to all, including people with mobility issues. Lifts must be designed and installed to enable access by persons with disabilities, and the controls, alarms, and signals must be designed and located to be accessible to everyone.

Types of Public Lifts we install, maintain & repair:

Passenger lifts
Glass & scenic lifts
Dumbwaiters
Platform lifts
Goods and services lifts
Large vehicle transportation lifts
Mobility Lifts
Escalators and Moving Walkways

REAL ESTATE SECTOR

Private sector lifts are elevators used in private buildings such as residential homes, private offices, and private facilities that are not open to the public. These lifts are designed to provide convenient and safe transportation between floors for individuals and their belongings.

Also known as Residential lifts or private sector lifts, real estate lifts can come in various designs, sizes, and functionalities, depending on the specific needs and preferences of the building owner or user. For example, a residential home may have a smaller lift that can accommodate a wheelchair or a few people, while a private office or facility may have a larger lift designed to move heavy equipment or large groups of people.

Private sector lifts may include various features such as voice-activated controls, customized finishes, and other personalized options to meet the specific needs and preferences of the owner or user. These lifts are typically installed by trained professionals and are subject to safety regulations and codes.

Types of Real Estate Lifts we install, maintain & repair:

Passenger lifts
Glass & scenic lifts
Dumbwaiters
Platform lifts
Goods and services lifts
Large vehicle transportation lifts
Dock leveller and scissor lifts

RESIDENTIAL SECTOR

LIFT MAINTENANCE

Ensure seamless and reliable elevator performance with
VM Elevators’ comprehensive maintenance contracts.

Our experienced technicians will provide regular inspections and maintenance services to keep your elevators running smoothly, minimize downtime, and ensure the safety of your passengers. Invest in peace of mind and a hassle-free experience with VM Elevators.

LET'S TALK

    * = required field