When you choose a drive system, it’s a technical but essential process.
Today we’re going to look over three drive system options for your home elevator. When you choose one of these systems, it’s a technical but essential process. We know that residential elevators come with many customizations, and we hope to make the selection process less overwhelming. Here are the ins and outs of cable drum, hydraulic, and the MRL Overhead Cable Drum Drive system options.
Cable Drum Drive System
This popular choice is compact. It features an electric motor and gearbox that winds and unwinds heavy-duty cables to move the cab up and down as safely as possible. The rail configuration that this system uses saves space and uses a proprietary controller with serial communication and an advanced self-diagnostic microprocessor.
A machine room is necessary to house the hoistway and machinery for this type of system because it provides easy access if there needs to be repairs or maintenance on the equipment. However, the machine room does not have to be large and can fit within your existing floor plan. In a nutshell, the benefits of cable drum drive systems are:
- Flexibility
- Easy Installation
- Advanced Safety Features
- Quiet ride
Hydraulic Drive Systems
A cable drum and hydraulic drive system are similar. Both systems include a monorail guide, proprietary controls with serial communication, an advanced self-diagnostic processor, and require a machine room to house it. A hydraulic drive system uses a hydraulic ram and piston to move the car up and down. The advantages of a hydraulic drive system are:
- Smooth, quiet rides
- Easy maintenance and repair
- Advanced safety features
MRL Overhead Cable Drum Drive Systems
When you opt for this drive system, you gain all of the benefits of a cable drum and hydraulic drive system while gaining the benefit of a machine room-less elevator. Fortunately, advances in elevator motor technology reducing the electric motor size, make it possible for the mechanicals of this elevator drive system to sit above the cab, in the shaftway, and does not require a separate machine room. If you own a townhome with limited space, you’ll appreciate this benefit. What’s beneficial about this system is that:
- It doesn’t require a machine room
- It’s ideal for smaller homes
- It doesn’t use up a lot of energy
- Advanced safety features
Are you still unsure about which system is best for your residential elevator? No worries! The professionals here at Preferred Elevator will help you make an informed decision.
Preferred Elevator: We’re On the Up and Up!
For over a decade, Preferred Elevator has served residents in Central Maryland, Baltimore, and Washington, DC. You can rely on our experienced home installation team and quality products.
For our commercial elevator clients, we also provide annual inspections of your equipment to adhere to standards established by the state of Maryland. During these inspections, we make sure that your commercial mobility product is functioning correctly and efficiently. We’ll also go over all safety devices and customized features offered within your plan!
Get in touch with us! Our business hours are Monday-Friday 8 am -5 pm. Reach us by phone at 410-238-2555, or follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn.
