Elevators are large, complex systems, and understanding their components and mechanisms can be challenging for the average person. But if you manage a building with an elevator, having a basic understanding of the system’s mechanics can help you identify malfunctions and safety issues.
For example, what type of motor is used in an elevator? Modern elevators can use several types of motors, depending on how the elevator is designed. Explore common types below and how the right motor can affect safety and performance.
Common Types of Elevator Motors
If you want to know how elevators work, understanding the types of motors used can be helpful. Elevator motors can typically be categorized into two primary lifting mechanisms: traction and hydraulic. Most modern elevators use traction-based motors.
In a hydraulic system, the most common motor is a submersible pump motor, a specialized type of AC induction motor submerged in an oil-filled tank to keep the machinery cool and lubricated.
Meanwhile, traction elevators often use one of the following:
- Gearless traction motor: This high-performance motor is permanently attached to the elevator’s drive sheave, eliminating the need for a gearbox. Modern elevators often use permanent magnet synchronous motors (PMSMs), which are compact, quiet, and efficient. PMSMs use rare-earth permanent magnets, such as neodymium, rather than requiring an electric current for magnetization.
- Geared traction motor: This type of motor uses a traditional gearbox to reduce the motor’s high rotational speed to the torque required to move elevator ropes. Geared traction motors are more cost effective than gearless ones, but they also require more maintenance.
A novel type of elevator design is the machine room-less (MRL) elevator, which does not require a dedicated machine room above the elevator shaft. These elevators use highly compact PMSMs, reducing the architectural space needed for the elevator system.
How the Right Motor Improves Elevator Safety
What type of motor is used in an elevator? Many motor types exist in the elevator industry, and their designs can affect safety and performance differently.
Elevator manufacturers often agree that PMSMs are the modern standard. They are digitally controlled and gearless, promoting flawless stops and starts through exact torque and speed control. These and many other motors use variable frequency drives (VFDs) to dynamically control the exact torque needed, preventing jerks and overspeeding.
Elevator suppliers also tend to prefer gearless motors because they eliminate the need for a gearbox, reducing the number of moving parts that are prone to friction and overheating. During power outages, these motors can even use regenerative braking to act as a generator and ensure a controlled descent.
Learn How ELEVATE Monitoring Enhances Elevator Safety
If you want to optimize elevator performance, choosing the right type of motor can be helpful. But the elevator monitoring system you choose also plays a major role in emergency responses.
ELEVATE Monitoring’s advanced, two-way video monitoring systems make it easy for passengers to seek help when they need it. Learn more today by calling 877-990-9191.
