Have you ever wondered how a lift can transport you from one floor to the next so smoothly and precisely? Behind every lift ride lies the complex and fascinating mechanism of a lift.
That's why we've taken on the task of explaining to you what the components are and how this system works, which has revolutionized the way we move around in tall buildings. Let's get to it!
How does a lift work?
In general terms, a lift works thanks to a motor that moves a cabin along vertical guides. This movement is achieved by means of steel cables that connect the cabin to a counterweight and a pulley.
However, there are different types of lifts and each one has a specific mechanism that makes its operation change depending on its main components. We will explain this in more detail later.
Mechanism of an electric lift
These are the most commonly used currently due to their efficiency and versatility. The mechanism of an electric lift is based on the conversion of electrical energy into mechanical movement, which operates as follows:
By pressing a button on the control panel, a sequence of actions coordinated by an electronic control system is initiated. This system processes the request and sends a signal to the electric motor, which, through a set of gears or a frequency converter, turns a traction pulley.
Steel cables connected to the cabin and counterweight are wound or unwound on this pulley, moving the cabin to the selected floor. A variable frequency drive controls the motor speed, ensuring a smooth ride.
As the destination approaches, the system gradually reduces speed and activates the safety brakes. Finally, the doors open automatically, allowing passengers to enter.
Specific components of an electric lift mechanism
- Electric motor: converts electrical energy into mechanical movement.
- Traction pulley: large diameter wheel on which the steel cables are wound.
- Frequency converter: allows the speed and torque of the motor to be controlled precisely.
- Steel cables: connect the cabin and counterweight to the traction pulley.
- Counterweight: balances the weight of the cabin, reducing engine load.
- Guides: direct the vertical movement of the cabin.
- Control system: composed of microprocessors, sensors and actuators, it manages all the lift functions.
- Control Panel: interface for users.
- Automatic doors: allow access to the cabin.
Advantages of electric lifts
- Thanks to the use of electric motors and advanced control systems, the electric lifts They are more efficient than hydraulic models.
- Electronic control systems allow precise positioning of the cabin on each floor.
- They can adapt to a wide variety of buildings and loads.
- Electronic components facilitate the diagnosis and repair of possible faults.
- Electric motors are generally quieter than hydraulic motors, which contributes to a more pleasant environment in the building.
Mechanism of a hydraulic lift
This type of lift works by taking advantage of the force generated by a pressurized fluid, usually oil. The mechanism of the hydraulic lifts is characterized by being smooth and silent, especially suitable for heavy loads and short travels.
Its movement is based on a pumping and oil pressure system. An electric motor drives a pump that draws oil from a reservoir and forces it through control valves into a cylinder.
Inside the cylinder, a piston moves up or down in response to oil pressure, dragging the lift cabin with it.
When the cabin is lowered, the oil returns to the tank, thus completing the cycle. Control valves regulate the speed and direction of the piston movement, ensuring a smooth ride.
Specific components of a hydraulic lift mechanism
- Hydraulic pump: generates the pressure necessary to move the piston.
- Cylinder: container for the piston and hydraulic fluid.
- Piston: moving element that transmits the force of the fluid to the cabin.
- Control valves: regulate oil flow and direction of movement.
- Oil tank: stores the hydraulic fluid.
- Power unit: includes the electric motor and control components.
Advantages of hydraulic lifts
- The movement is smoother than in electric lifts.
- They can carry heavy loads with ease.
- Fewer moving components than electric lifts, making them less expensive to maintain.
Mechanism of a pneumatic lift
Pneumatic lifts, although less common than electric or hydraulic lifts, offer an efficient and quiet solution for certain applications. They move using compressed air to generate the force needed to raise and lower the cabin.
The mechanism of a pneumatic lift consists of creating a partial vacuum in a vertical cylinder. By reducing the air pressure inside the cylinder, an upward force is generated that pushes the cabin. To lower the cabin, air is allowed to enter the cylinder, balancing the pressure and allowing gravity to act.
Main components
- Compressor: Supplies compressed air to the system.
- Air tank: stores compressed air at high pressure.
- Valves: Control airflow and direction of movement.
- Cylinder: sealed container where partial vacuum is produced.
- Piston: connected to the cabin, it moves inside the cylinder.
- Guides: direct the vertical movement of the cabin.
- Control system: manages the operation of the lift.
Applications
Pneumatic lifts are mainly used in applications where the following are required:
- Bridging small level differences, such as in one- or two-story buildings.
- They usually have a lower load capacity than electric or hydraulic lifts.
- They are very quiet, making them suitable for noise-sensitive environments.
- Their simple design makes them easy to install and maintain.
At Eleva Balear we are specialists in lifts
We know that a lift is a long-term investment that must guarantee the safety and comfort of users. Therefore, we will advise you so that you can find the lift mechanism that best suits your needs.
Our commitment is to provide you with a first-class customer experience, accompanying you at every stage of the process. If you need any service related to lifts in Mallorca, contact us! At Eleva Balear we are specialists in Vertical Mobility.
