Hydraulic elevators are one of the most common types of elevators around the world. To understand the popularity and widespread use of this type of elevator, it is enough to look at the available statistics. In Europe, nearly 70% of installed elevators are hydraulic. This type of elevator has a long history and many sources show that the first elevators invented by mankind used the hydraulic system.
In this article, we intend to comprehensively and accurately examine the various aspects of hydraulic elevators. In this regard, we will examine the types of hydraulic elevators, their advantages and disadvantages, construction and parts, and all the important things related to these popular types of elevators. Stay with Scud Lift.
History of hydraulic lift
Today, with the advancement of technology, professionals have been able to use hydraulic systems in elevators instead of traction systems, which have higher security and are more economical. About 60 years ago, hydraulic lifts became popular in the elevator industry. With the arrival of motorless elevators (MRL) on the eve of the 21st century, these types of elevators faced new competition.
Since the 19th century, cable and water hydraulic elevators were used for vertical movement. In the 1950s, oil-hydraulic elevators were introduced to the elevator industry in Germany and the United States almost simultaneously and immediately became popular.
At first, hydraulic elevators were mostly used to carry cargo. But with the improvement of performance and for economic reasons, these elevators were also used to move people. The economic reasons included lower cost, the need for tools and less work for installation, which made these types of elevators find a better place in public use.
In the United States, companies made more hydraulic elevators than traction types in the 1970s, and in the 1980s they produced more than twice as many traction elevators. By 2000, about 70% of elevators built in the United States were hydraulic.
The hydraulic elevator was first invented in the 19th century by Elisha Otis. In 1852, he designed a landing system for tower elevators that used a drawbar and looping to ensure safety. The invention of the first elevator marked the beginning of a new era in the history of urban transportation. Easy access to the upper floors of buildings significantly contributed to future developments and the development of new technologies.
Since then, the hydraulic lift has been recognized as an essential tool for transporting people and materials in buildings. Compared to electric elevators, these types of elevators produce less noise and require simpler and less maintenance. The most important features of the hydraulic elevator include high speed, high efficiency, and the ability to accurately control the ascent and descent. In general, these elevators are reliable and efficient.
How does a hydraulic lift work?
Hydraulic elevator is usually used in buildings below 6 floors. When the elevator goes up, the motor in the power unit starts to rotate and pumps the oil from the tank to the cylinder. As the oil is pumped and the cylinder is filled, the jack piston is pressurized and connected to the cross-sling. In this way, the elevator car moves upwards. To stop the cab at any floor, the central system must send a message to the engine to stop pumping oil.
After stopping the pumping, the elevator stops at the desired floor. To move the cab down, a message must be sent to the control valves. This command causes the valve to open and oil to flow in the system. In this case, gravity and the weight of the cabin transfer the necessary force to the cylinder and the jack, which causes the cylinder to empty of oil.
To stop the elevator completely, the central control system must issue a command that closes the valve and stops the car.
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Hydraulic elevators are used
because of their special features and advantages, especially in low and medium buildings. Some of the important features of hydraulic elevators are:
1. High power and efficiency:
Hydraulic elevators are usually very suitable for carrying heavy loads and can withstand high load capacity.
2. Easier installation:
Installing these types of elevators is easier and takes up less space due to the lack of a machine room on top of the building.
3. Lower cost:
The installation and maintenance cost of hydraulic elevators is usually lower than traction elevators, because they do not require complex structures and heavy equipment.
4. More security:
Due to the existence of hydraulic systems, these elevators are less prone to free fall. The emergency braking system and their smooth operation are more safe.
5. Smooth and quiet operation:
The movement of hydraulic elevators is generally smooth and silent because hydraulic systems are used to transmit power.
6. Flexibility in design:
These elevators can be made in various designs and with customized cabins and adapt well to different architectural needs.
7. No need for upper space:
These elevators do not require a car room at the top of the building, which is a big advantage for buildings with height restrictions.
8. Less energy consumption in some cases:
These elevators do not use energy when moving down, which can help reduce energy costs.
However, there are also some disadvantages, including lower speed compared to traction elevators and the need for constant maintenance of the hydraulic system.
Disadvantages of hydraulic lift
Hydraulic elevators, despite many advantages, also have disadvantages, some of which are as follows. Of course, if the rules and standards are observed during the installation of hydraulic elevators and this work is done carefully and correctly, the advantages of hydraulic elevators will be much more than traction elevators.
• Lower speed than other elevators
Suitable for low-rise buildings (up to 5 floors)
• Increase in oil temperature during frequent use, especially when lowering
• Erosion of parts in contact with the soil
• Limitation in the number of starters compared to traction elevators
• Possibility of oil leakage in the elevator well
Types of hydraulic elevators
Hydraulic elevators are classified based on several factors. Among these criteria, we can mention the type of jack, the type of power unit, the structure of the jack (number of stages), the number of jacks, the type of control valve, the method of starting the engine, the type of use, etc. The most common classification in the industry is based on the type and installation method of the hydraulic jack. In the following, we will describe the differences between direct and indirect elevators and introduce common types of hydraulic elevators.
Straight jack hydraulic lift
In this type, the elevator jack is directly connected to the cabin (yoke or carsling). In this case, the wire rope or chain and the pulley or chain wheel are removed.
Indirect jack hydraulic elevator
In this type of elevator, the jack is connected to the cabin through a cable. In this model, a patch is installed on the jack and the wires are connected to the fixed support on one side and to the carsling on the other side.
Hydraulic jack lift from below
This is a type of direct jack lift where the jack is installed under the cabin. The installation of this system requires a jack hole under the elevator well, which must be well insulated against the penetration of water and corrosive substances.
Hydraulic jack lift from under telescopic
If there is a limitation in the supply of the jack hole, telescopic jacks are used, which can be two-stage or three-stage and have a shorter cylinder length compared to the displacement length.
Hydraulic lift with indirect side jack
This type of elevator, which is also known as a side jack elevator, can be installed directly or indirectly. The most common type is the indirect side jack with a movement ratio of 1:2 and it is mostly used in passenger, household and small cargo elevators. This model uses a jack with a movement course of half the length of the track.
Hydraulic lift with two indirect side jacks
This system is suitable for heavy lifts with long displacement height, such as car lift with 3 to 4 stops. This method is also used where it is not possible to dig a jack well.
Hydraulic lift with straight side jack
This system is suitable for installing low-rise elevators, for example, a hydraulic home elevator with two workstations.
Hydraulic jack lift on the side of the telescopic straight
This system is used for cases where the long length of the jack is problematic compared to the height of the elevator shaft. Two or three-stage telescopic jacks are placed next to the cabin.
Hydraulic lift with two straight side jacks
This model is used for elevators with heavy load capacity and without the possibility of providing a jack hole. Some car, industrial and heavy elevators use this model. At high altitudes, there should be enough space at the top of the well to place the jack.
Hydraulic lift with two telescopic jacks
Telescopic jacks are used to solve the jack height problem in the double jack hydraulic elevator model. These jacks occupy less space in height and can be installed in two or three steps.
What spaces are hydraulic elevators suitable for?
Hydraulic elevators are suitable for different spaces and applications due to their special features and capabilities. In the following, I will explain in what spaces and for what applications hydraulic elevators are suitable:
1. Short and medium buildings:
Hydraulic elevators are especially suitable for buildings with low to medium height (usually up to 6 floors). The hydraulic system is not suitable for tall buildings due to the limitations of movement at high altitudes.
2. Small residential and commercial buildings:
Hydraulic elevators are suitable for residential and small commercial buildings due to their lower installation and maintenance costs. These types of elevators can meet the needs of moving people in these buildings well.
3. multi-story parking lots:
Hydraulic car elevators are especially suitable for multi-storey parking lots. These elevators can move cars easily and safely between floors.
4. Historical buildings:
In historic buildings where structural changes should be minimized and there is limited space for installation, hole-less hydraulic elevators are very suitable. These systems do not need to dig a deep well and can be installed without much destruction.
5. Industrial buildings:
In industrial buildings that need to move heavy loads and equipment, twin post hydraulic elevators are very suitable. These types of elevators can move heavy loads well and have high stability.
6. Car repair shops:
Hydraulic car lifts are also used in car repair shops and mechanical workshops. These elevators provide the possibility of moving cars to different heights and help in car repairs and maintenance.
7. Places with limited space:
Hydraulic elevators with indirect hydraulic elevator (Indirect Hydraulic Elevator) and telescopic (Telescopic Hydraulic Elevator) are suitable for places with limited installation space. These systems do not require much space to install jacks and can work well in buildings with limited space.
8. Small and medium office buildings:
In small and medium-sized office buildings where there is a need to move people between several floors, hydraulic elevators can be a suitable option. These systems are usually efficient and easy to maintain.
Feature of hydraulic lift
Due to its unique features, Scud Lift hydraulic elevator has always been able to attract the satisfaction of Scud Light customers, some of these features include:
• Easier installation and maintenance: Installation and maintenance of hydraulic elevators is usually simpler and less expensive than traction elevators.
• Safety: These elevators usually have good safety systems that reduce the risk of falling.
• Less space: In some cases, hydraulic lifts require less space for installation.
In general, the choice of hydraulic elevator depends on the specific needs of the building and space limitations.
The main components of the hydraulic lift
Hydraulic elevators are one of the popular options in different buildings and environments, having different and complex components, each of which has a specific role in the proper functioning of the system. Familiarity with these components and how they work can help to better understand these systems and maintain them properly. In the following, we will introduce and explain the main components of the hydraulic elevator:
1. Hydraulic pump:
The hydraulic pump is responsible for pumping hydraulic oil into the cylinder. These pumps are usually electric and pressurize oil by converting electrical energy into mechanical energy.
2. Hydraulic oil tank:
The oil tank is where the hydraulic oil is stored. This tank must be large enough to accommodate the required volume of oil. The tank is also equipped with filters that prevent contamination from entering the hydraulic system.
3. Cylinder and piston:
The cylinder and piston are the main moving parts of the elevator cabin. Hydraulic oil is pumped into the cylinder and causes the piston to move upwards. The piston is directly connected to the elevator car and causes it to move.
4. Hydraulic control valve:
The control valve is used to adjust the oil flow to the cylinder and control the movement of the elevator. These valves can be operated manually or automatically and by opening and closing, they direct the flow of oil to the cylinder or tank.
5. Hydraulic elevator cabin:
The elevator cabin is a compartment where people or loads are placed and moved to different floors. The cabin is connected to the piston and moves up or down as the piston moves.
6. Guide rails:
The guide rails determine the direction of the cab and prevent it from deviating from the path. These rails are usually made of steel and are installed in the wall of the elevator shaft.
7. Emergency braking system:
Emergency braking system is installed in hydraulic elevators for more safety. This system stops the elevator cabin in case of any problem or sudden power failure to prevent passengers from falling or being injured.
8. Control unit (controller):
The control unit is the mastermind of the hydraulic lift, which manages all the operations and functions of the system. This unit includes electrical circuits and control software that are responsible for synchronizing the various components of the elevator.
9. Safety valves (safety valves):
Safety valves are installed in the hydraulic system to prevent excessive pressure. These valves act in case of any pressure fluctuations and return the excess pressure to the tank.
10. Ventilation system:
The ventilation system is used to maintain the proper temperature of the hydraulic oil and prevent it from overheating. This system includes fans and radiators that help cool the oil.
Hydraulic lift dimensions
The standard dimensions of the hydraulic lift depend on the type of building and its application. However, there are some standard dimensions and specifications for general hydraulic elevators, which I will mention below:
1. Small residential and commercial elevators:
Cabin dimensions: For a standard residential elevator, the cabin dimensions are usually 1 meter wide and 1.25 meters deep. These dimensions can be changed depending on the specific needs of the building.
Capacity: The capacity of these elevators is usually between 320 and 630 kg, which is equal to 4 to 8 people.
Door height: The standard height of the elevator door is usually 2 meters.
2. Car elevators:
Cabin dimensions: For car elevators, cabin dimensions should be larger to provide enough space for moving cars. Usually, the dimensions of the cabin are 2.5 meters wide and 5.5 meters deep.
Capacity: The capacity of these types of elevators can be up to 3000 kg or more, depending on the type and size of the cars to be moved.
Door height: The door height of car elevators is usually between 2.1 and 2.5 meters so that cars can enter and exit easily.
3. Hospital elevators
Cabin dimensions: Hospital elevators are designed to move hospital beds and usually the dimensions of the cabin are 1.4 meters wide and 2.4 meters deep.
Capacity: The capacity of these elevators is between 1600 and 2000 kg.
Door height: The door height of hospital elevators is usually 2.1 meters.
4. Freight elevators:
Cabin dimensions: The cabin dimensions of freight elevators can be very diverse and change depending on the type of cargo and available space. The usual dimensions for small freight elevators are 1.5 meters wide and 2 meters deep.
Capacity: The capacity of freight elevators can be between 1000 and 5000 kg or more.
Door height: The door height of freight elevators is usually 2 to 2.5 meters.
5. Telescopic hydraulic elevators
Cabin dimensions: The cabin dimensions for this type of elevators depend on its type and specific application and can be similar to residential or cargo elevators.
Capacity: The capacity can also vary depending on the type of application and need.
Important points in determining the dimensions of the hydraulic lift
• Local standards:
Local and national standards such as EN81-20/50 in Europe or ASME A17.1 in the US must be followed.
• Special needs of the building:
Depending on the type of use of the building, the dimensions of the cabin and the capacity of the elevator may change.
• Spatial limitations:
The space intended for the installation of the elevator must be carefully measured to ensure that it matches the dimensions of the elevator.
• Accessibility: In buildings that require access for people with disabilities, the dimensions of the cabin should be such that it complies with accessibility laws and regulations.
Finally, choosing the right dimensions for the hydraulic elevator requires consultation with experts and specialist engineers so that all the needs and limitations of the building are properly considered.
The most important application of hydraulic lift
Undoubtedly, the main reason for the popularity of hydraulic elevators is the variety of functions of these elevators, in the following we will examine the most important applications of these elevators:
• Hydraulic passenger elevator
The hydraulic system is one of the suitable options for passenger elevators with different displacement capacities and heights and low to medium speeds. Hydraulic passenger elevators can be designed and implemented with various capacities; From low-capacity one- or two-person elevators to high-capacity elevators.
• Hydraulic passenger freight elevator
Passenger freight elevators are usually designed and implemented with capacities of more than 750 kg or equivalent to 10 people. If the moving distance of the elevator is small to medium, the hydraulic system is considered the best solution for this type of elevator.
• Hydraulic car lift
Car elevators are usually designed and implemented with a capacity between 2,500 and 5,000 kg, according to construction conditions and user needs. Due to their high capacity, these types of elevators are operated with a hydraulic system if the number of stops is between two and four stations. Car lifts are usually designed and implemented using jacks placed under the cabin or double jacks on the side.
• Hydraulic home elevator
Home elevator refers to small elevators that are installed with cabins and doors (between cabins and floors), along with complete safety systems and devices, in buildings with two to four stops and a maximum capacity of 4 people. These types of elevators are usually implemented with a hydraulic system, due to their special characteristics.
Another type of these devices, known as home elevators, are usually designed and implemented for two to three stops and a capacity of two to three people. These elevators often use single-phase electricity and operate at a very low speed and are without cabin doors.
In general, the choice between a home elevator and a home lift depends on the specific needs and conditions of the building and intended use, which select the appropriate type based on the capacity, number of stops, and technical features.
• Industrial elevators
Industrial elevators are used to move cargo or passengers between workstations at building heights and are mainly used in factories, industrial sites, workshops and warehouses. These types of elevators generally operate using a hydraulic system. The load carrying capacity in industrial elevators is usually very high, which is mentioned as one of the main reasons for the widespread use of hydraulic systems for them.
• Old buildings without elevators
Older buildings that do not have elevators are usually equipped with elevators using a hydraulic system. This action is the main reason for the widespread use of the hydraulic system in such conditions due to the lack of an engine room and flexibility in determining the location of the power unit.
• Panoramic luxury elevators
In all types of elevators that operate with hydraulic system, the balance weight is removed. This means that in jack systems, there is no need for towing wires, parachutes, governors and weight rails, which creates very favorable conditions for designing glass cabins with different geometric shapes. For this reason, hydraulic panoramic elevators are usually used in low to medium height buildings.
These types of elevators, as symbolic glass devices, constitute one of the important applications of hydraulic elevators, because these designs give special glory and beauty to buildings and provide an organic and captivating experience for passengers. You can contact our experts at Scad Lift to order a variety of luxury panoramic hydraulic elevators.
• Hydraulic lifts
Elevators are a type of elevators that are designed to carry goods. Most lifts are designed and run because of the advantages that a hydraulic system offers. One of the most important determining factors in the type of lifting system is the required load capacity and achieving the desired speed.
The hydraulic system for elevators is chosen for reasons including high strength and stability, low installation space requirement, and simple and reliable structure. This system is generally used in elevators that seek reliable performance as well as space saving.
In general, hydraulic lifters are recognized as a suitable option for various types of loads in industrial, commercial and residential environments, because their ability to carry high loads and their reliable performance against various environmental pressures are among their important features.
Technical specifications of hydraulic elevator
The technical specifications of the hydraulic lift may vary depending on its type and use. But in general, some of the basic technical specifications that can be considered are:
1. Load capacity: This characteristic indicates the maximum weight that the elevator can carry. Load capacity is usually specified in kilograms or pounds.
2. Moving height: This characteristic indicates the height at which the elevator can move the load between stations. This height can be several meters or different floors.
3. Speed: The speed of a hydraulic lift, which refers to the speed of movement between stations, is usually measured in meters or feet per second.
4. Cabin dimensions: This includes the length, width and height dimensions of the cabin, which vary depending on the load capacity and the number of passengers that can be carried.
5. Control system: The type of control system that may include automatic, manual control or achieving safety standards such as safety valves and emergency systems.
6. Protection and safety system: includes features such as parachute systems, governors, tow wires and other safety devices that are used to prevent accidents in the event of a power outage or system failure.
7. Installation location and space requirements: This includes mechanical and electrical requirements such as building dimensions, ceiling height, and space required to install the hydraulic system and other equipment.
These specifications are considered as a general guide for determining and selecting a hydraulic lift, and depending on the specific needs of each project, other specifications may be required.
Construction and installation of hydraulic elevator
Hydraulic elevator generally includes the stages of manufacturing and providing equipment, installation and commissioning. The main equipment of these elevators, such as jacks and power units, are made based on special orders. The design and manufacture of these equipments is done according to the exact parameters of each project, which makes these equipments, which are precisely adapted to the specific conditions of the project, better in terms of quality and performance than the ready-made equipments that are available in the warehouse.
Manufacturing hydraulic equipment is a highly specialized process and requires technical knowledge and high experience in the field of both elevators and hydraulic systems. It is completely wrong to use industrial hydraulic equipment in elevators. The installation and operation of hydraulic elevators requires sufficient expertise and experience and must be done in accordance with the standards and instructions of the hydraulic equipment manufacturer. That is why Scud Lift installs and operates your elevator through the experience and expertise of its colleagues.
Although it can be considered easier, cheaper and safer to install a hydraulic lift in general, the balance weights in the hydraulic system are completely removed and the driving equipment is located at the bottom station, which increases the speed and safety of the operation.
Purchase of hydraulic lift
Buying a hydraulic lift can be a complex and sensitive process that requires careful consideration of needs, technical specifications and the appropriate selection of suppliers. In the following, I will mention some important points in buying a hydraulic lift:
1. Determination of requirements and technical specifications:
First of all, you need to determine the needs of the elevator. This includes load capacity, handling height, speed, cabin dimensions, type of control system, need for safety features such as parachutes and governors, and other technical specifications.
2. Choosing the right supplier:
After defining the needs, look for a supplier with experience, adequate knowledge of hydraulic technology and the ability to provide solutions tailored to your project.
3. Review of quality and standards:
Ensure that the manufactured elevator has the necessary certifications and standards for safety and optimal performance. It includes national and international standards such as EN81 and ASME A17.1.
4. Cost and budget:
Calculate the costs associated with the purchase, installation and operation of the elevator and match it with your existing budget. Also consider future maintenance and repair costs.
5. Support and after-sales service:
Ensure that the supplier has adequate after-sales service, spare parts and technical support to address any problems that may arise during the life of the lift.
6. Project management and planning:
Make a detailed plan for the installation and commissioning of the elevator and pay attention to the proper project management so that the process is carried out optimally and without problems.
By following these tips, you can choose the best hydraulic lift for your needs and enjoy its safe and reliable operation for your building.
The best hydraulic lift company
Scud Lift, as one of the pioneers in the field of producing and providing hydraulic elevators, with more than two decades of experience and expertise, is known as the best option for safe, reliable and quality elevators. Scud Lift has been highly praised by customers and projects due to its focus on high quality, use of modern technology and adherence to international standards.
Scud Lift products, including hydraulic lifts, with unique design, high performance and the use of the latest technologies, ensure safety and optimal performance for users. Each elevator under the Scud Lift name is a symbol of attention to detail, durability and reliability, which is designed and built according to the specific needs of each project.
As the best hydraulic lift company, in addition to providing high-quality products, Scud Lift is also recognized for professional after-sales service, spare parts supply, and technical consultation. Since its establishment, this company has been committed to providing comprehensive solutions compatible with the needs of its customers and has had a strong presence in all phases of elevator project implementation, from design to installation and operation.
By choosing Scud Lift, you will enter a world of hydraulic elevators with excellent quality and competent and valuable services that will meet all your needs and allow you to enjoy the reliable and stable performance of your elevators.
Contact our experts for more information.
Frequently Asked Questions
This type of elevator works by using hydraulic jack and power unit, the oil flow in the power unit is created through the pump and moves the jack piston. A full description of how the hydraulic lift works is on this page.
Under normal conditions, hydraulic elevators require a room to install the power unit, control panel, three-phase panel and other equipment. But in some situations, hydraulic elevators can be installed as MRL (Machine Room Less), which means that no engine room is required.
In this situation, the power unit and the control panel are installed inside the elevator well, and special requirements must be met in this regard.
It is true that the elevator pit is not related to the type of elevator system, but depends on the safety requirements and standards related to its dimensions. For hydraulic elevators, the height of the well is usually considered to be about 140 cm, but this height may vary according to the specific conditions of the installation site and local standards.
The shaft requirements must be such as to ensure the safety and proper operation of the elevator and be consistent with national and international safety standards.