There are two main types of elevators: hydraulic and traction. It’s not always easy to tell which type of elevator you’re riding in, as the mechanics are all hidden behind the scenes. You may not even notice a difference anyway. That being said, different buildings need different types of elevators.
For instance, one type may be better for small buildings, while another would be better for high-rises. Hydraulic and traction elevators are the two most common systems found in commercial buildings today. Here’s a look at the differences.
Traction Elevators
The major difference in how each one operates has to do with the way in which the cab is transported. In traction elevators, the cab is lowered and raised by traction steel belts or ropes in conjunction with a pulley system. Compared with hydraulic systems, traction elevators:
- Use up less energy
- Are best for mid- to high-rise buildings
- Give you a smoother ride
Also, traction elevators operate with the help of a counterweight that offsets the weight of the cab as well as passengers. Because the motor does not need to move as much weight, traction elevators are more energy efficient than their hydraulic counterparts.
Traction elevators are the most commonly used elevator type and can be either geared or gearless.
Geared
In this type of traction elevator, a gearbox is attached to the motor, which in turn drives the wheel while moving the ropes. Geared elevators can reach speeds of up to 500 feet per minute. They are initially more affordable than gearless elevators.
Gearless
In this type of traction elevator, the sheave attaches directly to the motor’s end, reaching speeds up to 2,00 feet per minute. While they come with a high initial cost, they are more energy efficient than geared types.
Hydraulic Elevators
Hydraulic elevators do not utilize an overhead hoisting machinery like traction elevators do. Instead, they operate the cab through the use of a fluid-driven piston mounted inside a cylinder. The fluid is usually oil-based but can be vegetable oil-based to lessen the environmental impact.
Compared with traction elevators, hydraulic systems:
- Offer more affordable installation
- Are less expensive to repair and maintain
- Are better for transporting heavy loads
- Are designed for low-rise applications
Most often used in buildings that have less than five stories, hydraulic elevators operate at slower speeds than traction types, usually about 150 feet per minute or less.
The two different types of hydraulic elevators are holed and holeless.
Holed
In this design, the hydraulic cylinders are placed inside a drilled hole, allowing up to 60 feet of travel.
Holeless
These do not require a drilled hole, so they are often found in existing buildings or in places where drilling a hole would be cost prohibitive.
Contact Mowrey Elevator
No matter which type of elevator you need, we have all the parts required for hydraulic and traction elevators. Browse our online catalog and contact us to place your order or to request service.