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Top Ten Elevator Companies 2024 Across the World
An elevator, also known as a lift, is a vertical transportation device used to move people or goods between different floors or levels of a building. Elevators are a crucial part of modern infrastructure, making it possible to efficiently and comfortably access high-rise structures. Here’s a more detailed look at what elevators are and how they function:
Components of an Elevator
1. Cabin (Car): The part of the elevator where passengers or goods are transported.
2. Hoistway (Shaft): The vertical passageway through which the elevator moves. It contains the guide rails that stabilize the elevator car.
3. Motor and Pulley System: Typically located at the top of the hoistway, this system moves the elevator car up and down. In hydraulic elevators, a pump system is used instead.
4. Control System: Includes the buttons and interfaces inside the elevator car and on each floor, as well as the computer systems that control the movement of the elevator.
5. Doors: There are usually two sets of doors – the elevator car doors and the hoistway doors. These doors open and close automatically to allow passengers to enter and exit.
6. Safety Devices: Elevators are equipped with multiple safety mechanisms, including emergency brakes, alarm systems, and interlocks to ensure the doors do not open when the elevator is in motion.
Types of Elevators
1. Traction Elevators:
• Geared Traction: Uses a gearbox attached to the motor, suitable for mid-rise buildings.
• Gearless Traction: Does not use a gearbox, allowing for smoother and faster operation, ideal for high-rise buildings.
2. Hydraulic Elevators:
• Uses a hydraulic ram and fluid-driven piston to move the elevator car. Common in low-rise buildings and are generally slower than traction elevators.
3. Machine Room-Less (MRL) Elevators:
• Do not require a separate machine room, making them more space-efficient. Suitable for mid-rise buildings.
4. Pneumatic Elevators:
• Use air pressure to move the car, suitable for residential applications and low-rise buildings.
How Elevators Work
Traction Elevators:
1. The motor turns the sheave (a pulley with grooves), which raises and lowers the elevator car using steel ropes.
2. A counterweight balances the elevator car, reducing the amount of energy needed to lift the car.
3. The control system manages the speed and position of the car, ensuring smooth stops and starts.
Hydraulic Elevators:
1. A motor pumps hydraulic fluid into a cylinder, pushing a piston that lifts the elevator car.
2. To descend, the fluid is released from the cylinder back into the reservoir, and the car lowers.
Safety Features
• Emergency Brake System: Activates if the elevator moves too quickly or if the hoisting cables fail.
• Door Interlocks: Ensure that the elevator car doors and hoistway doors open only when the elevator is at a designated floor.
• Alarm Systems: Allow passengers to signal for help in case of an emergency.
• Backup Power: Ensures that the elevator can reach the nearest floor and open the doors in the event of a power outage.
Applications
• Residential Buildings: Elevators in apartment complexes and homes for ease of access.
• Commercial Buildings: Office buildings, hotels, and malls to transport people between floors efficiently.
• Industrial Uses: Freight elevators designed to carry heavy goods and equipment.
Elevator Access Control
Elevator access control systems manage who can use the elevator and access specific floors. These systems are crucial for security in residential, commercial, and industrial buildings. Modern access control systems often integrate with building security systems and can include features like:
• Keycard or Fob Systems: Only authorized individuals can call the elevator and access certain floors.
• Biometric Scanners: Use fingerprints or facial recognition for access.
• Intercom Systems: Allow communication with security personnel or residents for access approval.
Elevators are essential for modern urban living, providing efficient and safe vertical transportation in various types of buildings.
When selecting an elevator brand, quality, reliability, and user-friendliness are crucial. Whether for residential or commercial purposes, choosing the right elevator can significantly impact the building’s efficiency and safety.
Here’s a rundown of the top elevator manufacturers known for their excellence in the industry.
1. Mitsubishi Electric
Since its inception in 1931, Mitsubishi Electric has been a pioneer in the elevator industry. Known for its passenger and freight elevators, Mitsubishi combines safety with innovation. Their elevators and hydraulic systems are commonly found in hospitals and commercial buildings, emphasizing both reliability and advanced technology.
2. Schindler
Founded in Switzerland in 1874, Schindler is one of the oldest and most respected elevator companies in the world. Schindler offers a comprehensive range of mobility solutions, including elevators, escalators, and moving walkways, along with installation and maintenance services. These products are essential for apartments, office buildings, and commercial spaces.
3. Otis Elevator
Otis is a name synonymous with elevators, having created the first safety elevator. Today, Otis elevators are ubiquitous, featuring prominently in buildings around the globe, including Dubai. Otis also provides modernization services to upgrade and integrate the latest elevator technologies.
4. Hyundai Elevator
Hyundai Elevator, although a late entrant in the mid-80s, has made significant strides in the industry. Known for its eco-friendly and high-speed elevators, Hyundai offers some of the fastest elevators available, including a model that reaches speeds of 18 meters per second. Hyundai is a brand to consider for those seeking cutting-edge technology.
5. AVT Beckett
AVT Beckett, a relatively young company that entered the U.S. market in 2017, specializes in elevators for various building types, from low-rise to high-rise. Their product range includes geared, gearless, hydraulic, and machine room-less (MRL) elevators, as well as car lifts, making them a versatile choice for modern buildings.
6. Delta
A leader in innovation, Delta is a Canadian company that focuses on enhancing the customer experience. Known for their advanced video projections, integration capabilities, and elevator controls, Delta aims to set new standards in the industry through collaboration and innovation.
7. KONE
Though not founded in the U.S., KONE has established itself as a top elevator company in the country. KONE is dedicated to passenger safety and technological innovation, along with a strong commitment to corporate responsibility, diversity, and inclusivity.
8. Thyssenkrupp
Germany-based Thyssenkrupp is renowned for its engineering excellence. The company focuses on manufacturing elevators with large capacity, energy efficiency, and durability. Thyssenkrupp’s extensive background in steel production further supports its claims of producing highly durable elevators.
9. Toshiba Elevator
Toshiba Elevator is celebrated for its affordability and advanced integration applications. This makes Toshiba an excellent choice for buildings looking to upgrade their access controls and ensure reliable and efficient vertical transportation.
10. True Canadian Elevator
True Canadian Elevator, another Canadian-based company, is notable for its strong customer relationships in the U.S. They provide both manufacturing and maintenance services, emphasizing modernization and upgrades, particularly in elevator control systems.
