Elevator Safety Tips

Elevators are a part of visiting many public and private buildings.  They are designed to be safe and receive regular elevator maintenance and repairs.  You can play a part in using the elevator safely but following these elevator safety tips.  We’ve also included information for what to do if you’re in a stalled elevator.

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Elevator Safety Tips

There’s things you can do to be more safe while using elevators.  We have tips for before, entering, riding, getting off, and what to do if the elevator gets stuck.

Calling & Waiting For Elevators

  • Read the board to find out what floor you’ll need to get to your destination.
  • Select the direction, up or down, you need to go to get there.
  • Watch for the car to arrive and an auditory signal that the doors have opened.
  • Keep in mind any disorders that cause dizziness or otherwise make elevators uncomfortable.
  • Allow passengers to exit the elevator before trying to get on.
  • If the elevator is already full wait for the next car instead of cramming in.
  • Avoid trying to rush between closing doors or prevent them from closing.
  • If there’s been a power outage or fire use the stairs and avoid elevators.

Boarding The Elevator

  • Before getting on the elevator allow people to exit.
  • Mind your footing as you step into the elevator.
  • Make sure you and your cargo is clear of the elevator doors.
  • Hold hands with your kids and if you have pets make sure to hold them.
  • Whoever is closet to the elevator door should stand to the side if staying on.
  • Passengers exiting on the next stop should move near the doors to exit.
  • If someone needs extra time to get on or off hold the “Door Open” button.
  • As you enter make sure you push the button for your floor and then find room to stand.

Riding The Elevator

  • Brace yourself against a wall or hold onto railings.
  • Watch for what floor the elevator is on so you know when to be ready to exit.
  • If the elevator stops on your floor but the doors don’t open push the “Door Open” button.
  • Stay calm and be considerate of other people on the elevator.

Disembarking The Elevator

  • As soon as the doors open at your floor make your way out of the elevator.
  • Avoid pushing anyone else in the elevator to exit, ask them to please move if needed.
  • Mind your step if there’s a difference between the floor and elevator car height.
  • Be aware of people trying to get on the elevator and be considerate to exit quickly.

Why Do Elevators Get Stuck

The odds of getting stuck in an elevator are extremely low as there are laws governing the maintenance and repair of elevators in buildings.  In fact for someone who rides an elevator 8 times a day the chances of that individual getting stuck is about 1 in 5,000 (according to KJA Elevator Design)

  1. Electricity Failure In Building – Elevators run on the building’s power. If it goes out the elevators can not move.
  2. Software Malfunction – Most modern elevators have some level or automation controlled by computer software.
  3. Mechanical Breakdowns – Wear and tear is a fact in every mechanical system including elevators.
  4. Fail Safe Mode – If something is wrong in the system the software is designed to stop the elevator for safety.

What To Do If The Elevator Is Stuck

If you’re unlucky one day and you’re stuck in an elevator here’s what you should do.

  1. Breathe slow and deep to maintain your calm.
  2. Never try to climb out of the elevator.
  3. Contact The elevator operated using the call button or phone.
  4. Contact the office, co-workers, friends, or family to let them know.
  5. Talk to other passengers and help them stay calm if you’re not alone.
  6. Sit down, relax, and take a nap if you feel inclined.
  7. If you’ve got your laptop or tablet you can study or continue to work.

Absolutely never climb out of the elevator as it can power back up and move when you’re on top of it.  People have been injured and some have died when this happens. Stay safe, stay calm, and stay in the elevator.

Elevator Maintenance & Repair Services

If you own a building and need elevator maintenance or elevator repair services, Arizona Elevator Solutions is here to help!  We offer on going maintenance, repairs, and ensure that you’re building is up to code.  This helps you avoid unnecessary liability and ensure your occupants are happy, healthy, and safe as they visit your building.

Call 480-557-7600 or Contact Us

Different Parts Of An Elevator (List)

Different Parts Of An Elevator List

If you are searching “elevator parts list“, “elevator parts name” or “parts of elevator and its function“, this post should help!

We have been using elevators for decades now, and have always operated on a very simple principle. Although the simple basic principle of elevator engineering has stayed the same over the years, there has been many small tweaks made in order for the elevator to give a smoother ride.

By using systems that are computer controlled, the efficiency of elevators has been increased and they give a much more rapid means of transport. See below for a brief list of elevator parts.

Parts Of An Elevator (List)

The different parts of an elevator include:

Elevator Car and Shaft

The construction of the elevator designed it to be encased within the elevator shaft, and to be used to transport people and various objects to different levels in a building. Elevators come in a few different sizes, all of which have been designed with at least one door and work off of a motor or hydraulic system that pulls them up and lets them back down again.

With the most common being the motorized elevators, and also the best value in the construction of buildings. Also, the shafts of an elevator consist of guide tracks, which the elevator is guided by when being pulled up and down, and this help to balance any counterweight, and it is both of these together that helps take stress off of the elevators motor.

The Sheave and Motor

Elevators that are raised and lowered by steel ropes that are connected to a counterweight and to the elevator car are motorized one’s. Whereas the counter is to stimulate the weight for the elevator car at 40% of its capacity, this is to help in reducing any strain on the motor as well. The sheave is what the pulley is called, it has groves in it and lets the rope be lifted, raised, and lowered.

It is the motor that keeps the sheave (pulley) moving in the correct direction, taking people where they need to go.

Control Unit

The control unit, motor, and the sheave, are all housed in the control room, which is generally in a location at the top of the elevator shaft. This is where the signals of each floor’s controls go and then they are translated through the system to tell the motor whether to move up or down. Once the elevator has reached its destination there is a signal sent to the control room for it to either stop and let passengers board or exit it.

There has been software installed in a computer that monitors the travel patterns, along with specific instructions that have been programmed into the control unit with the resting locations and signal priorities.

Counterweight and Guide Rails

A counterweight is used for reducing stress on the motor because it is constantly being strained from the continuous lifting and lowering of the elevator (movements of going back and forth like a child’s seesaw). The motor works with the counterweight repelling the elevator in the upwards direction and then in the downwards direction. To keep the elevator and the counterweight from swaying guide rails were also designed into the construction making it a smooth ride in both directions.

Download Elevator Parts List PDF

Arizona Elevator Solutions Is A Professional Elevator Company In Arizona

Arizona Elevator Solutions is your go to elevator specialists that can handle anything from elevator repair and maintenance to elevator modernization and upgrades. Get a free elevator modernization quote from Arizona Elevator Solutions today! We also offer elevator services in Colorado.

Elevator Company In Phoenix – Arizona Elevator Solutions

Elevator-Company-In-Phoenix

If you are searching for “Elevator Company Phoenix” or “Elevator Companies In Phoenix“, Arizona Elevator Solutions Can Help! We are a commercial elevator company offering a variety of elevator services to Phoenix, Arizona businesses.

About Our Commercial Elevator Company In Phoenix, Arizona

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Arizona Elevator Solutions is Phoenix, Arizona’s premier elevator company! We offer elevator service, repair and modernization of all makes of models of residential and commercial elevators. Phoenix businesses can now count on a reliable elevator maintenance plan.

Our elevator company prides itself of friendly elevator technicians, top customer service and repairs done right. This means techs will always be there to ensure elevator safety and minimal downtime for elevator repairs.

Elevator Services In Phoenix

Arizona Elevator Solutions provides the following elevator services in Phoenix, Arizona:

Elevator Repair In Phoenix

If your having problems or your elevator isn’t currently working, Arizona Elevator Solutions can get it back up and running with our elevator repair services.

Learn more about elevator repair in Phoenix

Elevator Installation In Phoenix

Thinking about installing a new elevator or replacing your old one? Arizona Elevator Solutions can help with our elevator installation services.

Learn more about elevator installation in Phoenix

Elevator Maintenance In Phoenix

Having a regular elevator maintenance plan is important to avoid costly breakdowns and keep your elevators operating at 100% efficiency.

Learn more about elevator maintenance in Phoenix

Elevator Modernization In Phoenix

If your elevator is old or doesn’t meet current elevator code requirements, you should definitely consider elevator modernization.

Learn more about elevator modernization in Phoenix

Hire An Expert Elevator Company In Phoenix, Arizona

If you are looking to hire an expert elevator company in Phoenix, Arizona, look no further than Arizona Elevator Solutions for all of your elevator service needs, give us a call today at 602-515-7379.

Elevator Problems & Solutions 2018

Elevator-Problems-Solutions-2018

Are you searching Google for “Elevator Problems and Solutions” while looking for the most common elevator problems and solutions to repair your elevator.

There are various reasons elevators start to malfunction, from worn sheaves to old operating systems. At Arizona Elevator Solutions, our team is always ready to assist you.

There are various elevator equipment failures that can be avoided using the correct preventative maintenance and inspections. Regular maintenance does not simply enhance the productivity with reduced down times, but it can also decrease your energy consumption as much as 15%.

When your elevator begins to breakdown often, or there are longer than usual wait times, it can be a sign of wear. High energy use, overheating, lower power factors are not always the obvious issue, but can lead to hidden costs. By implementing some simple maintenance practices to the elevator motor, the downtime and expenses can be decreased.

Common Elevator Problems

The following are some of the more common elevator issues and solutions on how they can be prevented:

  1. Elevator Issue: Worn Sheaves

Repair Solution: Sheave Regrooving

Extra wear is placed on the ropes by worn sheaves, which results in more wear on the sheaves. This leads to more wear and destruction on both components.

To help prevent premature hoist rope failure, the sheaves can be replaced or regrooved. You should ensure the grooves are checked and verify the proper fit between the sheave and ropes. There are simple tools available that use magnetic standards with a straight edge for visually checking the sheave grooves to ensure they wear evenly.

  1. Elevator Issue: Power failure

Repair Solution: Infrared inspection

When it comes to commercial elevators, a large amount of power is needed. When the system’s voltage is upgraded, this can affect the elevator’s motor operation or even lead to damaging the elevator system. If there is a history of motor problems or failures with an elevator, a power quality survey should be conducted.

Using infrared thermography can measure any drastic temperature changes while being able to identify potential spots for trouble prior to becoming a costly system failure. The common faults like under or over voltage can easily be found using power quality surveys as well as fuses which run hot, these can be detected using infrared imaging prior to motor failure.

  1. Elevator Issue: Contamination

Repair Solution: Oil & Lubrication analysis

Once wear begins to occur, smaller particles of metal get released into the oil which can interfere with correct functions of the elevator system. In a similar manner, using improper lubrication or if the seals become worn, it can lead to contamination issues. Conducting oil analysis is able to check for different types ofproperties which could show contamination or even wear to the motor.

  1. Elevator Issue: Noisy Bearing or Bearings Malfunctions

Repair Solution: Inductive absorbers

Over half of motor failures occur due to bearing malfunctions. A noisy bearing is frequently attributed to the motor vibrations. As variable frequency drives can be helpful in lowering motor energy, it can also introduce common mode current, which is a damaging byproduct which increases the vibrations to levels that can be dangerous and lead to premature wear on the bearings which is caused form stray currents.

The solution for this, is considering the use of inductive absorbers, like CoolBLUE that can absorb currents while protecting the system from possible breakdowns. In addition, you should make sure that the grounds are all connected and secured to minimize issues that can be caused by electrical noise from the ground that could trip the system or lead to false counts within the system.

  1. Elevator Issue: Misaligned Motor Drive

Repair Solution: Motor alignment

When coupling an electric motor with another piece of equipment, it is important to pay attention to shaft alignment. With improper alignment, motor bearings start to wear down. The use of advanced laser measuring equipment can detect proper shaft alignment, or misalignment. Another method is employing a string and straightedge.

As an alternative, the consideration of buying geared machines which employ a flange mounted motor which doesn’t require alignment in the event disassembly occurs to the machine.

Troubleshooting Elevator Malfunctions

With so many different moving parts an elevator has it can make troubleshooting them very difficult, not to mention all of the knowledge needed, and the experience that is required in order to know how all the parts work together. It will depend on the manufacturer of the buildings elevator system, and the size of the building in question. Troubleshooting the root of the problem could be a lot like running through an area where they are practicing shooting handguns.

Here are several of the more common complaints by passengers, and also elevator problems that the Arizona Elevator Solutions Team have seen:

Slower Waiting Times:

When elevators have been in use for years their relays eventually begin to wear down, and their performance will also begin to get slower, to sum things up, they become less efficient. You will need an experienced elevator technician to check it out and let you know if it is time to replace the relays, or if you are in need of a total replacement.

When An Elevator Starts Making Sudden Stops Or Begins To Have Abrupt Landings

This could be due to timing issues, faulty electronics, and/or electrical failures. All of these is going to make landings rougher, or traveling up and down may be a jerky trip, and shifty.

Elevator Is Overheating

The chance of an elevator breaking down are increased during the summer months, as the drives, as well as the control systems may not be cooling adequately, in this case the temperature may be exceeding 100 degrees.

Elevator Sensor Problems & Power Failures

When an elevator has sensor failures or backup generator problems it can keep the elevators doors from opening, and it can prevent the elevator from working at all. It is important to have elevators inspected on a regular basis, which is the first step to take in maintaining a smooth ride and the efficiency of your elevator systems.

Minimize the safety risks involved, and the down time of your elevators, including having to replace your entire elevator systems cost. Are in need of some assistance to troubleshoot your elevators problems?  If so, give us a call today.

Other Elevator Repair Solutions

Thank you for reading “Elevator Problems & Solutions 2018“! Stay tuned for more from the expert elevator specialist at Arizona Elevator Solutions.

Here are Arizona Elevator Solutions, our team provides on-site elevator repair and preventative elevator maintenance services to elevator customers in various industries.

Elevator Controller & Relay Repair Tempe, AZ | AZ Elevator Solutions

Elevator-Controller-Relay-Repair-Tempe-AZ

Elevator relays are dependable devises that consist of electromagnets that open and close contacts which routes the logic to circuits. A basic elevator with only a few stops and manual operation of elevator door is perfectly served by relay controllers. Complex elevators can use relays too and they were until 1980. Although, the sheer number of elevator relays needed make it harder to troubleshoot relay problems if they ever arise. We provide elevator controller repair and elevator relay repair in Tempe, AZ and the rest of the Phoenix Valley.

Types Of Elevator Controllers We Repair

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There are 3 different types of elevator controllers, including relay, solid state logic, and PLC elevator controllers. Learn more about each below.

Relay Elevator Controller

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Relay controllers consist of electromagnets that open and close dry contacts, and routes the logic to other circuits. Relay controllers are best suited for elevators that only have a few stops and use manual door operation. Although, relays can also be used for complex eleavtors, and they were until the 1980’s/ However, the sheer number of relays that are required for newer elevators make it a problem to troubleshoot in the midst of a problem.

Relay Elevator Controller Applications

  • Single Lift Elevators
  • Drive Speeds That Are 1m/s or less
  • Commercial Buildings That Are Low-Rise (Hospitals, Hotels, Offices)
  • Passenger lifts in 3 Story Or Less Buildings (Nursing Homes, Small Hotels, Residential Buildings)

Solid State Elevator Controller

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Solid state logic elevator controllers include integrated circuit boards and transistors circuits. It provides easy fault diagnosis, lower power consumption and improved reliability over relay controllers.

Solid State Elevator Controller Applications

  • Duplex Groups & Single Lift Elevators
  • Drive Speeds That Are 2m/s or less
  • Passenger lifts in 12 Story Or Less Buildings (Small Hotels, Residential Buildings)
  • Commercial Buildings That Are Low-Rise (Hospitals, Hotels, Offices)

PLC Elevator Controller

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Microprocessing technology is more affordable than ever thanks to the advent of personal computers. PLC Elevator controller use microprocessor technology to control logic on more complex elevator situations.

PLC Elevator Controller Applications

  • All Types Of Elevator Lifts
  • Any drive speed 10m/s or less
  • All Sizes Of Lift Groups

What Is An Elevator Controller

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An elevator controller is a electronic device that manages visual monitoring, traffic analysis system and interactive command control to make sure your elevators are functioning properly.

The main function of elevator controllers are to receive/process signals from a variety of elevator components. It’s able to send response signals to signals it receives in order for operation of other parts in the system. This exchanging of signals is how elevator controllers keep the elevator running efficiently day in-day out.

How Elevator Controllers Interact With Other Components

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  • Control the speed of the elevator engine to move cabs up and down their shafts
  • Queue and process elevator floor requests provided by passengers through button pressing signals
  • Processes the information sent to the controller by load sensors to make sure the cab doesn’t exceed the safety weight limit
  • Process position marking information to always know where the elevator cabs are as well as the speed they are traveling at
  • Provides lit feedback to elevator passengers through button lights, floor number displays and direction displays
  • Can set off alarm bells invoked by passengers or excess load signals
  • Controls the door opening device for operation of elevator doors

Call Us For Elevator Controller Repair & Upgrades

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If you are looking for elevator relay repair or elevator controller repair in Tempe, AZ, you have found the place. AZ Elevator Solutions in Tempe, AZ can repair, upgrade, or modernize your Relay based elevator controller (w/ electromechanical switching). Give us a call today at 602-515-7379 or fill out our short contact form on our website to schedule your repair.

5 Tips For Better Elevator Maintenance In Tempe, Arizona

5 Tips For Better Elevator Maintenance In Arizona

Since their invention, elevators have enjoyed use and popularity as an expected fixture in any multi-storied building.  High traffic facilities such as commercial offices and hospitals may use elevators over a hundred times a day, usually with little notice of the elevator itself.

Typically, elevators tend only to be noticed when they fail to run or run with issues.  However, dealing with constant (or even intermittent) issues with your facility’s elevator doesn’t need to be a recurring theme.  Keep these tips in mind next time you’re thinking about the maintenance of your own building’s elevators.

  1. Be proactive

Regular inspection is key in maintaining the order of your elevators.  Regular inspection ensures that you become aware of any potential issues that may need repair, as well as provides you with a general sense of the elevator’s overall condition.  Are the elevators adequately modernized or is an upgrade in order?

Understanding the elevators’ condition is helpful when trying to align your operations and capital budgets with your allowance for upcoming maintenance tasks.

  1. Maintain them regularly

With the numerous demands that come with managing a large facility, it is difficult to keep from falling into a more reactive approach to maintenance.  That is, issues that are unseen are then unattended to until the problem grows to more noticeable proportions.  This leads to repairs that are only reactive, and not preventative.

Elevators that are out of order are not only a headache but a major inconvenience; which is why FacilitiesNet recommends keeping a regular maintenance schedule.  Staying up to date with the service helps keep minor issues from cropping up; thus saving you money, time and hassle.  Additionally, regular maintenance helps extend the life of the elevator, which will free up some of your budget for other improvements.

  1. Prioritize Safety

Obviously, maintaining the safety of an elevator should be of the highest priority.  This concern extends to not only the passengers, but the maintenance team that will be conducting future maintenance and repairs.

ASME is the governing organization for elevator maintenance.  In their Safety Code for Elevators and Escalators, they outline the importance of having a written maintenance program.  The written schedule they recommend is very useful in creating and sustaining a regular maintenance pattern, which will in turn ensure the safety of the elevator’s passengers.  Building managers can even store a written guide in their CMMS for easy access, and repair teams can update the guide with repairs in real time.

  1. Understand the Potential Issues, and Get Prepared

Understanding the most common issues with elevator operations will be helpful in creating a schedule for repairs.  For instance, Facilities.Net notes that nearly 70% of service calls on elevators are because of non-functioning doors.

To reduce the likelihood of encountering this issue consider using a closed-loop door operator.  It’s a system which monitors the doors’ opening and closing speeds and compares the number to predefined standards.  Upon comparison, the operator will apply any additional force that’s necessary for more consistent operation.  While it is an investment, closed-loop operators will be well worth the money saved in future maintenance and repairs.

  1. Remember the contractors

Though you may be comfortable taking care of minor elevator issues yourself, larger and more involved issues may call for outside help.

To help you find the most reliable contractors for your repairs, the National Association of Elevator Contractors has outlined several programs to point you in the right direction.  For instance, next time you’re considering contractors, go with the one that’s affiliated with the NAEC’s Program.  Additionally, try to find a contractor who’s associated with the NAEC’s Certified Elevator Technician program.

If you are looking for elevator maintenance in Tempe, Arizona, you have found the right place. Arizona Elevator Solutions provides elevator maintenance, repair, modernizing, and more.