The low mechanical complexity of hydraulic elevators in comparison to traction elevators makes them ideal for low rise, low traffic installations. They are less energy efficient as the pump works against gravity to push the car and its passengers upwards; this energy is lost when the car descends on its own weight. The high current draw of the pump when starting up also places higher demands on a building’s electrical system. There are also environmental concerns should the lifting cylinder leak fluid into the ground. COUNT 4
QSN1 What type of installations are hydraulic elevators best suited for? ANS1 low rise, low traffic installations QSN2 Why do hydraulic elevators use more energy? ANS2 the pump works against gravity to push the car and its passengers upwards; this energy is lost when the car descends on its own weight QSN3 What else contributes to a higher demand from the electrical system? ANS3 The high current draw of the pump when starting up QSN4 What concerns arise when the lifting cylinder leaks fluid into the ground? ANS4 environmental concerns