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How The Elevator Works: by Joseph Mackay Plaxco The University of The South Sewanee, TN 37383

The document discusses the basic designs and mechanisms of two main types of elevators - hydraulic and rope-geared. Hydraulic elevators use a fluid-powered piston and cylinder mechanism to lift the car, while rope-geared elevators use cables connected to a motor and counterweight system. Rope-geared elevators are now more common as they are more energy efficient. Modern elevators also incorporate computer controls and safety systems like brakes and governors.

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Bharath Kumar
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49 views15 pages

How The Elevator Works: by Joseph Mackay Plaxco The University of The South Sewanee, TN 37383

The document discusses the basic designs and mechanisms of two main types of elevators - hydraulic and rope-geared. Hydraulic elevators use a fluid-powered piston and cylinder mechanism to lift the car, while rope-geared elevators use cables connected to a motor and counterweight system. Rope-geared elevators are now more common as they are more energy efficient. Modern elevators also incorporate computer controls and safety systems like brakes and governors.

Uploaded by

Bharath Kumar
Copyright
© Attribution Non-Commercial (BY-NC)
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
Available Formats
Download as PPT, PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
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How The Elevator Works

By Joseph Mackay Plaxco The University of the South Sewanee, TN 37383

Why?
I find the elevator cool. Phobia when younger Gets people to destinations fast. Large cities wouldnt be the same.

Different Types
Freight Elevators Stage Elevators

The Basic Design


The basic design is a compartment that is somehow lifted Two Types of Elevators:

Hydraulic Rope-Geared

The Hydraulic Elevator

The car is moved up and down using a fluid piston mounted inside a cylinder (Harris). Consists of three parts:
Tank Pump Valve

Hydraulic Elevators A Closer Look


The car is placed on a piston. Fluid Pumping System A tank (off to the side) holds the fluid. When the valve closes, the car is lifted. When the valve opens, the car is lowered.

Diagram of Hydraulic Elevator

The following link is from the website How Stuff Works written by Tom Harris.
How Elevators Work - Hydraulic

Hydraulic Disadvantages

Two Disadvantages
Must Have Enough Room Energy Inefficient

Rope-Geared Elevators
These are the most popular types of elevators. Rather than being pushed from below, these types of elevators are moved using cables

Rope-Geared Design

Cables attach to the car and through a sheave. The sheave is connected to an electric motor. Motor turns one way, elevator moves up. Motor turns the other way, elevator moves down. The ropes are connected to a counterweight. The counterweight system serves as a means for conserving energy.

Rope-Geared Design (Contd)


Rails are used to guide the elevator Keep elevator and counterweights steady. Rope-geared elevators are much more efficient and safer.

Diagram of Rope-Geared Elevator

The following link came from the How Stuff Works webpage written by Tom Harris
Rope-Geared Elevator Diagram

Safety Systems

More ropes than needed Built-in brake systems Governor prevents the elevator from falling to the bottom of the shaft. Centrifugal force causes a brake system to activate. Also has an electromagnetic brake that is activated if the elevator loses power. Automated Brake System at the top and bottom of the shaft.

Moving To Destinations

Modern elevators use computers. Slows down Only answer up calls as going up and the same for going down. Modern Smart systems take into account the busiest parts of the day. Press the floor you want in the lobby. Load Sensor

Works Cited

Harris, Tom. How Elevators Work. www.howstuffworks.com/elevator 2002.

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