Nowadays, getting into a lift is a daily occurrence. More and more multi-story buildings are being built that require the use of lifts to reach all floors. The truth is that they are tools that have been at our service for years, so much so that you probably know what lifts are, but do you know how they work? Probably not, so if you want to know, keep reading!
What are lifts and what are they used for?
A lift is a vertical transport system developed to carry people and loads between different levels of a building. These have revolutionized the way we live and work. Thanks to them:
- We have access to all levels of a building, improving the quality of life of people with reduced mobility.
- The need to climb up and down stairs is eliminated, saving time and effort.
- The flow of people and goods in tall buildings is optimized.
How does a lift work?
Now that you know what lifts are, it's time to explain how they go up and down without, apparently, any effort.
Its operation is based on the interaction of various components that work together to ensure safe and efficient movement. Although the lift technology has evolved significantly over the years, the basic operating principle remains the same. This is:
- Service Request: Pressing a button on a floor sends a signal to the lift's central control system, indicating the destination floor.
- Lift selection: The control system selects the available lift closest to the origin floor and the destination floor, thus optimizing service.
- Cabin movement: the lift motor is activated, driving the traction system (pulleys and cables) that raises or lowers the cabin to the requested floor.
- Leveling: Upon reaching the desired floor, the control system stops the cabin and precisely levels it so that the doors open correctly.
- Door opening: The cabin and floor doors open automatically, allowing passenger access.
- Closing doors: Once passengers have entered or exited, the doors close and the lift is ready for the next call.
Types of Lifts
When answering what lifts are, it is essential to remember that there are different types of lifts. And with the advancement of technology, the engineering with which they are manufactured has evolved over the years, giving rise to a wide variety of models adapted to different needs and environments. These are the most common:
Electric lifts
The electric lifts They are the most commonly used today due to their efficiency, versatility and ability to adapt to different heights and loads. They operate thanks to an electric motor that moves a system of pulleys and cables to raise and lower the cabin.
Advantages
- High speed and load capacity.
- Wide range of designs and finishes.
- Low energy consumption.
- Easy maintenance.
Disadvantages
- Requires a machine room to house the electrical equipment.
Hydraulic lifts
The hydraulic lifts They work through pistons that are driven by pressurized oil to raise the cabin. Thanks to this system, they are perfect for low-rise constructions and moderate loads.
Advantages
- Easy installation and maintenance.
- They do not require a machine room.
- Soft start and stop.
Disadvantages
- Limited speed.
- Lower load capacity compared to electric ones.
- They require a deeper well.
Pneumatic lifts
Pneumatic lifts use compressed air to raise the cabin. They are less common than electric and hydraulic lifts and are mainly used in special applications, such as hospitals or historic buildings.
Advantages
- Quiet operation.
- They do not require lubrication.
Disadvantages
- High installation and maintenance costs.
- Height and load limitations.
Lifts without machine room
The machine roomless lifts are an evolution of traditional electric lifts. By eliminating the machine room, space is optimized and noise is reduced.
Advantages:
- Compact and flexible design.
- Less visual impact.
- Easy installation.
Disadvantages:
- Higher initial cost.
Mechanisms of a lift
Now that you know what lifts are and what types exist, it's time to explain the mechanisms that make them work. Each component plays a crucial role in the movement and control of the cabin. These are the main ones:
- Traction system: transforms electrical energy into mechanical movement, raising or lowering the cabin. The most common traction systems are pulley and gear systems.
- Cabin: space where people or loads travel. It is suspended from steel cables and moves along vertical guides.
- Counterweight: A fixed weight that balances the weight of the cabin and its occupants, reducing the load that the engine must bear.
- Guides: vertical rails that guide the movement of the cabin and counterweight, ensuring precise and safe movement.
- Doors: allow access to the cabin. Their opening and closing are controlled by the control system.
- Control system: This is the “brain” of the lift. It manages all functions, from floor selection to opening and closing doors. It uses digital technology and microprocessors for precise and efficient control.
- Safety system: includes various devices such as limit switches, brakes, parachutes and safety doors, designed to prevent accidents and ensure the safety of users.
At Eleva Balear we are specialists in lifts
We have reached the end and now that you are clear about what a lift is, how it works and what its types are, you are surely thinking about installing one in your home or business. You have come to the right place! Since we specialize in providing you with vertical mobility solutions tailored to your needs.
Our team of professionals will put all their knowledge at your disposal to offer you the best equipment and services. From installation and modernization to preventive maintenance, we will take care of every detail to guarantee your safety and comfort.
Do you need a lift? Contact us! Eleva Balear will advise you and find the perfect solution for your lift in Mallorca.
