An Introduction To Freight Elevators
Freight elevators as the name implies are used to transfer goods or materials instead of people. They always have a notice posted to warn people not to use them as they are for goods only. However, there are some specialty models in use that allow for both people and goods to be lifted at the same time through the use of an inconspicuous riser. In most cases they will be much larger than a typical elevator and will be fitted with stronger cables so they can lift a heavier load. Sometimes their doors are opened and closed manually and have a rugged interior that is not easily damaged.
In most cases schematic freight elevators are electric as this is an energy efficient and cost effective method; however there are some which use hydraulics. There are a wide variety of other applications where these devices can be used such as for stage and orchestra lifts that make transporting the heavy instruments and equipment used by professional musicians much easier. Local laws are written concerning just what these devices are to be used for and how much they are allowed to carry, same as with overhead cranes. Sometimes, such as in the case of orchestra lifts, there are certain exemptions to these laws allowed. Because they are not often installed, the regulation is not always followed.
Freight elevators may be built in one of three different ways, traction, hydraulic, and climbing. Traction models are driven by electric motors and typically use a series of gears to control the movement of the elevator car. These are usually the best choice for basement and overhead use. Some models instead of using gears use high-powered motors which allow them to reach much greater speeds.
Hydraulic freight elevators use an underground hydraulic cylinder and work best with shorter buildings that are between 2 and 7 stories high. They typically move at a somewhat slow speed of 200ft per minute however. For shorter buildings between 2 or 4 floors, a hole-less hydraulic elevator may be used that features a pair of cylinders. Finally, for slightly taller buildings of 8 to 10 floors there is the roped hydraulic elevator. The climbing elevator ascends by its own propulsion and is powered by an electric or combustion engine.
If you are looking for manufacturers of freight elevators, you have plenty of good options to choose from. American Crescent Elevator is one such manufacturer and they offer pretty much every type of elevator that is in existence. Best of all is that all the parts are made in the United States so you can count on quality. Each unit is custom built with your own specific needs in mind. Bramalea Elevator Ltd. is another option you may want to consider. They have been in the business for over 25 years now and offer custom built elevators that can be used in a wide variety of applications.
