The Benefits of Oil Testing Technology for Hydraulic Elevators
Industry Forecast
The demise of the hydraulic elevator was forecast with the introduction of the MRL traction Elevator. Yet despite this new conveyance design, the hydraulic elevator is again beginning to thrive in the US market. The threat of replacement by the MRL traction elevator is waning. Hydraulic elevators are still viewed by many within the industry as the best selection for many buildings, in most applications for travel of 50 feet and less, the hydraulic elevator will perform as well as a traction elevator. However, speed and travel are a limiting factor. With new cylinder and well hole designs, the hydraulic elevator is expected to last longer than ever. The environmental risks and concerns are lessened with the encapsulation of the cylinder and the use of the cylinder liner and bulkhead. The initial construction cost is less than an MRL alternative, and the operating costs are less than anticipated. There is an industry trend for many elevator contractors to leave the suspension means (i.e. hoist ropes, belts, etc.) out of their standard maintenance contract language for traction and MRL elevators. This means that unless an elevator owner has those parts covered for replacement like in an ATIS Vertical Transportation Maintenance Specification (VTMS) or other contract, there could potentially be a large repair fee.
POINTS OF VIEW
Construction:
The conventional hydraulic elevator installation sells for about 35% less than the competing MRL Traction elevator.
Energy:
The pump motor in a hydraulic elevator is only energized when the car is running in the up direction. When the car is in the down direction only the low voltage solenoid valve is energized, resulting in a virtual zero cost to operate.
Hydraulic elevators are usually less costly to maintain. A typical four stop hydraulic elevator costs about 25% to 30% less per year for a “full maintenance” service when compared to a traction elevator.
Now let’s look at a maintenance service program for a hydraulic elevator from the service contractor’s point of view. What starts off as a good deal for everyone, begins to sour. Even when the contractor receives an increase in the service price each year, the aging equipment, deterioration of the oil and need for frequent parts replacement causes increased callback and repair time. This cycle begins to erode the profit margin of the contractor along with the customer level of trust and satisfaction.