However, every building has different needs, and therefore, there is a wide variety of elevator models on the market. This article aims to provide a comprehensive guide on different elevator classes and the typical usage areas of elevator models. Our goal is to help building owners, architects, contractors, and anyone who wants to be informed about elevator selection make the right decisions. In this guide, we will examine in detail the various elevator models available, the criteria by which these models are classified (drive system, intended use, safety standards, energy efficiency, etc.), and the most suitable areas of use for each model. Choosing the right elevator model is vital for the functionality, user comfort, and safety of the building.
An Overview of Elevator Models
Today, there are many elevator models available to suit different needs and building types. These models primarily differ in their working principles, intended uses, and structural features. The most common elevator models include electric elevators, hydraulic elevators, freight elevators, stretcher elevators, disabled elevators, vehicle elevators, panoramic elevators, dumbwaiters, and machine room-less elevators.
Electric Elevators: Working Principle and Usage Areas
Electric elevators work on the principle that the drive motor is activated by the command it receives from the control panel, causing the cabin to move in the desired direction. This motor allows the cabin to move up or down. In the basic working mechanism of electric elevators, the cabin moves together with a counterweight. The cabin and the counterweight are connected to a drive pulley via steel ropes. With the movement of the motor, the pulley rotates, and thus the cabin moves up or down. This system is also advantageous in terms of energy efficiency because the counterweight balances the weight of the cabin, allowing the motor to consume less energy. Electric elevators have a wide range of uses due to their versatility and the variety of speed and capacity options they offer. Typical usage areas include residential buildings, offices, shopping centers, and public buildings. These elevators provide an ideal solution for medium and high-rise structures. Electric elevator technology is a well-established system that has been used for many years, and therefore, there is widespread expertise and spare part availability for maintenance and repair.
Hydraulic Elevators: Working Principle, Advantages, and Disadvantages
Hydraulic elevators operate by means of an electrically driven pump. This pump moves the hydraulic fluid to a jack (piston) that directly or indirectly affects the cabin, causing the elevator to move. The downward movement of the cabin usually occurs by its own weight; the hydraulic fluid returns to the tank in a controlled manner. Hydraulic elevators have some significant advantages. The machine room does not have to be above the hoistway; it can also be located in the basement or an area close to the hoistway. This provides design flexibility. Additionally, for low-rise buildings, material and maintenance costs may be lower compared to electric elevators. Hydraulic elevators offer a less noticeable impact during start and stop and allow for precise adjustments between floors. In the event of a power outage, systems that automatically bring the cabin to the floor can be implemented economically. However, hydraulic elevators also have some disadvantages. They generally move slower than electric elevators and may not be suitable for buildings with heavy traffic. Since the viscosity of the hydraulic fluid can change with temperature, the performance of the elevator may vary depending on the operating conditions. The initial investment cost may be higher than electric elevators in some cases. Typical usage areas include low and medium-rise residential buildings, factories, shopping centers, and villas. Hydraulic elevators can be preferred, especially in places where a machine room cannot or is not desired to be built on the top floor.
Freight Elevators: Features and Typical Usage Areas
Freight elevators are primarily designed for transporting goods and materials. These elevators have a more robust structure to withstand heavy loads and usually have larger cabin or platform dimensions. Their carrying capacities can vary from 500 kg to 10,000 kg or more, depending on the intended use. In freight elevators, carrying capacity is prioritized over comfort and speed. In some cases, the person responsible for the transported load or employees may also be in the elevator. Freight elevators are used in many areas such as factories, warehouses, parking garages, shopping centers, hospitals (for transporting materials), industrial facilities, and agricultural/food processing plants. These elevators are designed to operate successfully in harsh environmental conditions. The design of freight elevators takes into account the most challenging conditions of the building in which they are installed. Safety precautions are of great importance in industrial environments.
Stretcher Elevators: Special Solutions for Hospitals and Healthcare Facilities
Stretcher elevators are specially designed elevators to transport patients comfortably and safely on stretchers. The carrying capacity of these elevators can typically reach 1600 kg, 2000 kg, or 2500 kg. Their most important difference from other types of elevators is their design focused on comfort and safety. The cabin can be precisely adjusted to the floors to prevent jolting during the entry and exit of the stretcher. Additionally, special equipment such as precautions against power outages, adjusted luminous flux, antibacterial surfaces, and stainless steel components may also be available. Stretcher elevators are used primarily in healthcare facilities such as hospitals, clinics, and nursing homes. The installation of these elevators is usually carried out in accordance with the criteria determined by the Ministry of Health.
Disabled Elevators: Accessibility and Ease of Use
Disabled elevators are designed to allow elderly, disabled individuals, and wheelchair users to move comfortably and safely in buildings. These elevators have some features that distinguish them from others: a wider entrance door, a standard automatic door, control panels located at a lower and horizontal level, and embossed buttons. Disabled elevators are sometimes also referred to as stairlifts or platform lifts. They provide easy access to all kinds of spaces with different platform types. Disabled elevators are used in every place where accessibility is important, from residences to public buildings, shopping centers to hospitals.
Vehicle Elevators: Parking Solutions and Usage Areas
Vehicle elevators are special elevators that allow the upper or basement floors of buildings to be used as parking lots. While the capacities of these elevators are generally between 2500 kg and 5000 kg, models with capacities up to 20,000 kg are also available. Vehicle elevators can be hydraulic or electric powered and can be preferred with automatic or sliding doors. They can be column-type or scissor-type. Vehicle elevators are frequently used in multi-story parking garages, car dealerships, car repair and maintenance services, buildings with insufficient parking space, and open parking lots with limited usage area. These elevators not only save space but also ensure the safe and easy transportation of vehicles. Safety is an important factor in these elevators, and various safety systems such as safety valves are available.
Panoramic Elevators: Aesthetic and Visual Advantages
Panoramic elevators are elevators that usually offer users the opportunity to view the exterior or interior space thanks to their glass cabins. These elevators add aesthetic value to buildings and are especially preferred in places such as shopping centers, hotels, open-air areas, train stations, business centers, and luxury residences. The drive system of panoramic elevators can be electric or hydraulic, and different cabin shapes (flat, mushroom, rocket, etc.) can be offered according to the building architecture. The glass used is usually shatterproof and does not harm users when broken due to its non-scattering feature. Panoramic elevators are not just a means of transportation but also an important design element that enhances the visual appeal of the building.
Dumbwaiters (Service Elevators): Usage Areas and Features
Dumbwaiters are small type elevators generally used in places such as hotels, restaurants, and villas for transporting small loads such as plates, glasses, and trays between the kitchen and the dining floor or between different floors. These elevators are designed for load carrying purposes only, and their dimensions are too small for people to enter. Their carrying capacities usually range from 50 kg to 250 kg. Dumbwaiters usually use guillotine-type doors that can be opened and closed easily. These elevators are quite useful for speeding up workflow and reducing manual carrying. They can also be used in places such as hospitals, industrial facilities, and libraries for transporting materials.
Machine Room-Less Elevators: Advantages and Application Areas
Machine room-less elevators are systems where, unlike traditional elevators, the drive machine is located inside or above the elevator hoistway. This design eliminates the need for a separate machine room, which provides a significant advantage, especially for buildings where space is limited. Machine room-less elevators generally use gearless motors, which can provide up to 40% energy savings compared to traditional motors. Additionally, since there is no gearbox, they have a longer lifespan, and the risk of environmental pollution is reduced as they are oil-free systems. Machine room-less elevators offer a quieter and more comfortable ride experience. Lower material and installation costs are also among their advantages. However, maintenance, service, and rescue operations may be slightly more difficult compared to machine room systems. They may not always be suitable for high-rise and high-speed applications and may pose some risks for structures in seismic zones. Typical usage areas include high and low-rise residential and commercial buildings.
Other Elevator Models
In addition to those mentioned above, there are other elevator models designed for specific usage areas. For example, inclined (horizontal) elevators used in large areas such as airports, hospital, and university complexes, as well as escalators and moving walkways that ensure continuous and safe transportation of people, are also important transportation systems. These types of systems offer special solutions for specific needs.
Table 1: Comparison of Elevator Models and Basic Features
| Model Name |
Drive System |
Typical Usage Areas |
Basic Features |
Advantages |
Disadvantages |
| Electric Elevator |
Roped |
Residential, Office, Shopping Center, Public Buildings |
Counterweighted, various speeds and capacities |
Versatile, energy-efficient (counterweight), widespread use |
Requires maintenance (ropes, pulleys)
|
| Hydraulic Elevator |
Hydraulic |
Low-Mid Rise Residential, Factory, Villa, Shopping Mall (low traffic) |
Piston lift, gravity descent |
Machine room flexibility, cost-effective in low-rise buildings, smooth start/stop, precise floor leveling |
Slow, less energy-efficient in high-rise buildings, temperature sensitive
|
| Freight Elevator |
Roped/Hydraulic |
Factory, Warehouse, Parking Garage, Shopping Mall, Hospital (materials), Industrial Facilities, Agriculture/Food |
High carrying capacity, robust structure |
Focused on heavy load transport, various capacity options |
Comfort is secondary
|
| Stretcher Elevator |
Roped/Hydraulic |
Hospital, Clinic, Nursing Homes |
Wide cabin, smooth movement, special equipment (backup power, antibacterial surfaces) |
Patient comfort and safety prioritized, hygienic
|
|
| Disabled Elevator |
Various |
Residential, Public Buildings, Shopping Mall, Hospitals (everywhere accessibility is needed) |
Wide door, low buttons, embossed buttons, platform options |
Provides accessibility, suitable solutions for different spaces
|
|
| Vehicle Elevator |
Hydraulic/Electric |
Multi-Story Parking Garage, Dealership, Service, Buildings with Parking Issues |
High capacity (2500-20000 kg), automatic/sliding doors, column/scissor design |
Space saving, safe vehicle transport
|
|
| Panoramic Elevator |
Roped/Hydraulic |
Shopping Mall, Hotel, Open Areas, Train Stations, Business Centers, Luxury Residences |
Glass cabin, aesthetic design, various cabin shapes |
Visual appeal, view opportunity, sense of spaciousness
|
|
| Dumbwaiter |
Roped |
Hotel, Restaurant, Villa, Hospital (materials), Industrial Facilities, Library |
Small cabin (cannot fit people), low capacity (50-250 kg), guillotine doors |
Space saving, material transport efficiency |
For load only |
| Machine Room-Less Elevator |
Roped |
Low-High Rise Residential and Commercial Buildings (space-constrained or aesthetics important) |
Drive machine in/above hoistway, gearless motor (usually) |
Space saving, energy efficiency (usually), quiet operation, longer lifespan (usually) |
Maintenance/service difficulty, potential for poor sound insulation, high-rise/speed limitations, risk of heat buildup in hoistway
|
Classification of Elevators: A Look at Different Criteria
Elevator classes can be defined in different ways according to various features of the elevators. These classifications play an important role in elevator selection and use.
Classification by Drive System
As mentioned earlier, elevators can be primarily classified into three main drive systems: hydraulic, roped (electric), and vacuum.
Hydraulic Elevators: Detailed Analysis of Advantages and Disadvantages
Hydraulic elevators move the cabin using pistons powered by the pressure of hydraulic fluid. One of the biggest advantages of this system is the flexibility to install the machine room anywhere in the building (usually on the first floor or in the basement). This is ideal, especially for buildings where there is no space for a machine room on the top floor or where it is not desired. Hydraulic elevators provide a smoother transition during start and stop and can make precise leveling between floors. They can offer high lifting capacities relative to their size, and generally, they may have lower maintenance costs in the long run due to their simpler structure. In the event of a power outage, it is usually easier to lower the cabin safely to the nearest floor. However, the speed of hydraulic elevators is generally lower than that of roped elevators, and their energy efficiency may be lower for high-rise buildings. The performance can be affected by the changing properties of the hydraulic fluid with temperature, and potential oil leaks can lead to environmental concerns (although not explicitly stated in the sources, this is a general concern). Different types of hydraulic systems (direct, indirect, roped) have different application areas and performance characteristics.
Roped (Electric) Elevators: Detailed Analysis of Advantages and Disadvantages
Roped or electric elevators move the cabin using an electric motor and steel ropes. The cabin works in conjunction with a counterweight, and this balance allows the motor to consume less energy. One of the biggest advantages of roped elevators is their ability to reach high speeds, making them ideal for high-rise buildings. Thanks to modern control systems (such as VVVF drives), they offer a smoother ride experience and are generally more energy-efficient than hydraulic elevators in tall buildings. However, these systems require a hoistway and usually a machine room (except for machine room-less models). The initial installation costs may be higher than hydraulic elevators, and regular maintenance of the ropes and pulleys is necessary. In recent years, the use of polyurethane-coated steel ropes (belts) in roped systems has become widespread. These belts allow for smaller pulley diameters, saving space, offering better traction, being more resistant to corrosion, and operating more quietly. This shows that roped elevator technology is constantly evolving.
Vacuum Elevators: Detailed Analysis of Advantages and Disadvantages
Vacuum elevators have a different working principle than other traditional elevators. The cabin, which moves inside a sealed tube, moves up and down by air pressure difference (vacuum). One of the biggest advantages of this system is that it takes up very little space and has a fast installation process; it usually does not require a hoistway or pit. Additionally, they offer an aesthetic appearance thanks to their panoramic designs. In the event of a power outage, the cabin slowly descends to the ground floor, which is a safe feature. Vacuum elevators generally require low maintenance. However, the cost of these elevators is usually higher than other types, and their carrying capacities are limited (typically suitable for residential use). They may also have some limitations in terms of speed and travel distance (although not explicitly stated in the sources, general information suggests this). Noise may occur during the operation of the vacuum pumps (this is also not explicitly stated in the sources). Vacuum elevators are generally preferred in detached houses, duplex/triplex apartments, offices, and small commercial spaces.
Classification by Intended Use
Elevators are also primarily classified according to their intended use. This classification is made based on the needs that the elevator is intended to meet.
Passenger Elevators: Features and Usage Areas
Passenger elevators are primarily designed for transporting people. In these elevators, comfort, speed, and safety are as important as capacity. Their capacities can vary from 2 people to 20 or more, and their speeds can also vary from 0.45 m/s to 2.7 m/s. Passenger elevators are used in a wide variety of buildings, from residential buildings to offices, hotels to shopping centers, and hospitals. They can be further classified according to standards such as Class 1 (residential), Class 2 (general use), and Class 3 (healthcare facilities).
Freight Elevators: Features and Usage Areas
(Covered in detail in Section 2.) Freight elevators are primarily designed for transporting goods and materials, and comfort is secondary. Factories, warehouses, shopping centers, and hospitals (for transporting materials) are typical usage areas.
Service Elevators: Features and Usage Areas
(Covered in detail in Section 2.) Service elevators (dumbwaiters) are designed for transporting small loads and are frequently used in places such as hotels, restaurants, and villas.
Vehicle Elevators: Features and Usage Areas
(Covered in detail in Section 2.) Vehicle elevators allow vehicles to be transported between floors and are used in places such as multi-story parking garages and vehicle services.
Table 2: Elevator Classification (by Intended Use)
| Class |
Description |
Typical Usage Areas |
Important Features
|
| 1 |
Elevators designed specifically for transporting people (Residential Elevators) |
Residential Buildings |
Comfort, safety, specific capacity and speed ranges
|
| 2 |
Elevators primarily designed for transporting people but can also carry loads when needed (General Purpose) |
Non-Residential Locations, Healthcare Facilities (in certain capacities) |
Comfort, safety, load carrying capacity
|
| 3 |
Elevators primarily designed for use in healthcare facilities (Elevators in Healthcare Facilities) |
Hospitals, Dispensaries |
Wide cabin, smooth movement, special hygiene and safety features
|
| 4 |
Elevators primarily designed for transporting loads, usually accompanied by people (Freight Elevators) |
Factories, Warehouses, Shopping Centers |
High carrying capacity, robust structure, safety precautions
|
| 5 |
Elevators with a cabin whose dimensions and shape prevent people from entering, designed for transporting small loads (Dumbwaiters) |
Hotels, Restaurants, Villas, Hospitals (materials), Libraries |
Small size, low capacity, fast and practical material transport
|
| 6 |
Elevators designed for high-rise buildings with heavy traffic, moving at speeds of 2.5 m/s and above (High-Speed Elevators) |
Skyscrapers, High-Rise Business Centers |
High speed, advanced control systems, comfort
|
Classification by Safety Standards
The design, manufacture, installation, and operation of elevators are subject to various safety standards and regulations to ensure user safety. In Europe, the most important standard series in this area is EN 81.
Impact of EN 81 Series Standards on Elevator Design
The EN 81 series are the basic safety standards for elevators applicable in Europe. This series includes various standards for different elevator types and usage areas. The EN 81-20 standard specifies the safety rules for the construction and installation of new electric and hydraulic elevators carrying passengers and goods. This standard provides detailed requirements on many aspects such as the hoistway, machine room, cabin, doors, safety devices, and electrical installation. The EN 81-50 standard covers the design rules, calculations, inspections, and tests of elevator components referred to in EN 81-20 and other related standards. These two fundamental standards are vital for ensuring the safe operation of elevators.
The EN 81 series also includes other standards for specific usage areas. For example, the EN 81-70 standard defines the accessibility requirements for elevators suitable for use by persons with disabilities. EN 81-72 specifies the safety rules for elevators intended for use by firefighters in the event of a fire. EN 81-71 covers vandal-resistant elevators, EN 81-73 the behavior of elevators in case of fire, EN 81-28 remote alarm systems for passenger and goods lifts, EN 81-58 the fire resistance of landing doors, and EN 81-77 elevators resistant to seismic conditions. These standards directly affect the design and safety features of elevators, ensuring the protection of users against different risk scenarios. For example, features such as emergency stop buttons, overspeed governors, safety brakes, and door safety systems are integrated into elevators in accordance with the requirements of these standards. Compliance with these standards guarantees the reliable and safe operation of elevators.
Impact of Different Safety Regulations on Classification
While the EN 81 series is valid throughout Europe, national building codes and local regulations may impose additional requirements on the classification and design of elevators. For example, regulations on fire protection of buildings may specify special conditions for firefighter elevators. Such regulations may mandate different safety levels and equipment for elevators depending on their intended use and the characteristics of the building in which they are located. Therefore, it is important to consider both EN 81 standards and relevant national and local regulations when selecting an elevator.
Table 3: EN 81 Series Safety Standards (Important Ones)
| Standard Number |
Title |
Scope |
| EN 81-20 |
Safety rules for the construction and installation of lifts - Lifts for the transport of persons and goods |
Safety of design and construction of new passenger and goods/passenger lifts
|
| EN 81-50 |
Safety rules for the construction and installation of lifts - Examinations and tests - Part 50: Design rules, calculations, examinations and tests of lift components |
Design, calculation, inspection, and test rules for elevator components referred to in EN 81-20 and other standards
|
| EN 81-70 |
Safety rules for the construction and installation of lifts - Part 70: Specific applications for passenger and goods passenger lifts - Accessibility to lifts for persons including persons with disability |
Accessibility requirements for elevators suitable for use by persons with disabilities and mobility impairments
|
| EN 81-72 |
Safety rules for the construction and installation of lifts - Part 72: Firefighters lifts |
Safety rules for elevators to be used by firefighters in the event of a fire
|
| EN 81-77 |
Safety rules for the construction and installation of lifts - Part 77: Lifts subject to seismic conditions |
Design and safety requirements for elevators to be used in earthquake zones
|
Classification by Energy Efficiency
Today, energy efficiency is becoming an increasingly important factor in elevator selection. Different elevator models and elevator classes can show significant differences in terms of energy consumption.
Comparison of Energy Consumption of Different Models and Classes
The energy consumption of elevators depends on many factors such as the drive system used, the efficiency of the motor, the control system, the frequency of use, the load carried, the travel distance, and the cabin lighting. Hydraulic elevators, especially in high-rise buildings, may consume more energy than roped elevators. Machine room-less elevators are generally more energy-efficient than traditional motors because they typically use gearless motors. Variable Voltage Variable Frequency (VVVF) drives used in modern electric elevators can significantly reduce energy consumption. Additionally, regenerative braking systems can convert the energy generated when the elevator descends or brakes back into electrical energy and feed it back to the grid, thus saving energy. Features such as LED lighting and sleep mode also contribute to energy efficiency. The correct design of mechanical systems that ensure the balanced movement of the elevator and the use of lightweight materials can also help reduce energy consumption.
Sustainable Elevator Options
Sustainable elevator options aim to minimize energy consumption and reduce environmental impact. Machine room-less elevators are generally considered a sustainable option as they typically consume less energy. Regenerative braking systems save significant energy by recovering braking energy. The use of energy-efficient LED lighting and smart control systems that optimize energy use according to traffic density are also important parts of sustainable elevator solutions. Building energy efficiency certifications and standards also highlight sustainability criteria in elevator selection.
Typical Usage Areas of Elevator Models: Detailed Review
Different elevator models offer the most suitable solutions for various building types and intended uses.
Residences: Which Models Are More Suitable?
Electric elevators are commonly used in residences. Hydraulic elevators can also be a suitable option for low and medium-rise apartment buildings. Machine room-less elevators are becoming increasingly popular, especially in residential projects where space saving is desired. For luxury residences and duplex/triplex houses, vacuum elevators can offer an aesthetic alternative. In residences requiring accessibility, disabled elevators (platform lifts) are an important need. The choice of elevator model for residences depends on factors such as building height, available space, budget, and accessibility requirements.
Commercial Buildings: Ideal Options for Offices, Shops, and Shopping Centers
In high-rise office buildings, high-speed electric elevators are preferred. Machine room-less elevators can be suitable for medium and high-rise commercial buildings. In shopping centers and hotels, panoramic elevators provide an aesthetic contribution, while freight elevators are necessary for transporting goods in shops. In restaurants within shopping centers, service elevators (dumbwaiters) are used. Elevator selection in commercial buildings focuses on factors such as efficiently managing high passenger and freight traffic, speed, and aesthetics.
Hospitals and Healthcare Facilities: Models Suitable for Special Requirements
In hospitals, stretcher elevators are mandatory for transporting patients. Additionally, passenger elevators (Class 3 according to standards) specially designed for the use of healthcare personnel and patients are used. Service elevators (dumbwaiters) are important for transporting needs such as medical supplies and food. Disabled elevators are also necessary for accessibility. Elevator selection in hospitals is based on special requirements where patient comfort, hygiene, and safety are prioritized.
Industrial Facilities and Warehouses: Solutions for Load Carrying Needs
High-capacity freight elevators are indispensable for industrial facilities and warehouses. In some industrial applications, hydraulic elevators can also be used for heavy lifting. In such environments, elevators are selected focusing on durability and high performance.
Other Special Usage Areas
In hotels, in addition to passenger elevators, panoramic elevators for aesthetic purposes and service elevators are used. In high-traffic areas such as airports and train stations, various systems such as passenger elevators, panoramic elevators, travelators (horizontal elevators), escalators, and moving walkways are needed. In parking garages, vehicle elevators are an important solution. Each special usage area has different elevator needs according to its function, user traffic, and aesthetic expectations.
Conclusion: Choosing the Right Elevator Model
In this article, different elevator models and elevator classes have been examined in detail. As we have seen, each elevator model has its own unique features, advantages, disadvantages, and typical usage areas. Choosing the right elevator model requires careful evaluation of many factors such as building height, intended use, traffic volume, budget, energy efficiency goals, and accessibility requirements.
It is important for building owners and project managers to consult elevator experts to determine the most suitable elevator model for their needs. Experts can recommend the most appropriate solution by considering the characteristics of the building and user requirements.
Elevator technology is constantly evolving, and more energy-efficient, safe, and comfortable systems are emerging. Therefore, it will be beneficial to consider the latest technological developments when choosing an elevator. The right elevator selection will significantly increase the efficiency and quality of modern living and working environments.