People often use the terms “freight elevators” and “service elevators” interchangeably. Some companies and commercial structures just install service elevators as an extra feature; they do not understand their elevator needs. Whether you are renovating an existing building or designing a new one, you should know the main differences between a service elevator and a freight elevator. In this blog, we will explain briefly the difference between these 2 types of elevators in detail and comprehend what they are designed to be used for.
How do Freight Elevators Differ from Service Elevators?
A service elevator is considered a modified model of a passenger elevator and is usually installed in tall residential buildings like apartments, public and private hospitals, and 5-star hotels for the housekeeping crew and to lift people, goods, etc.
On the other hand, freight elevators are built to move bulky items in the range of 2300 to 4500 kg—service elevators transport lightweight items such as office supplies, stretchers, etc. Service elevators can move both objects and people; freight elevators are made solely for moving goods and the tools necessary to load and unload things. In addition, the freight elevator cost is distinct from a service elevator.
Features and Types of Freight Elevators
Freight elevators are composed of components that make them durable. Normally, you will see reinforced gates, and steel wall floors and panels are employed to construct them. They operate at a slow pace and have advanced safety options to reduce the risk of accidents. Further, the doors of freight elevators open vertically. These kinds of doors double the amount of freight that can be kept in the elevator cabin and minimize the hoist way area. Freight lift elevators are categorized into 5 types:
- Class A: It is a standard freight loading elevator that is built to move evenly distributed loads that do not exceed 25% of its maximum capacity. However, the freight is loaded and unloaded with the help of labor or with a dolly.
- Class B: This category includes the motor vehicle loading elevator, which is particularly used for moving vehicles.
- Class C1: It is an industrial truck loading elevator. The 4-wheeled automotive utilized for loading and unloading the freight can enter the elevator cabin. However, the overall weight of the vehicle and the freight can’t surpass its capacity.
- Class C2: This is also an industrial truck loading elevator. It is employed to lift heavy loads and is capable of uploading 150% of the rated capacity. They are ideal for forklift loading.
- Class C3: The last type is also an industrial truck loading elevator but the weight of the one-piece load is equal to the elevator’s maximum capacity.
Features and Types of Service Elevators
A service elevator is very similar to a normal passenger elevator and is customized a little bit to create space for additional items. The door of the service elevator opens horizontally. They might not have the same safety features as freight elevators, but they are also designed while keeping safety in mind.
It is also constructed with rugged metal but not stronger than the freight elevator. However, service elevators are multipurpose as they can lift both people and lightweight goods. There are 3 types of service elevators:
- Traction Service Elevator: It is the most durable type of service elevator seen in high-traffic commercial uses. It lifts with the help of steel-wire cables and a counterweight system.
- Hydraulic Service Elevator: It has a hydraulic cylinder and reservoir filled with hydraulic fluid and compressed air to lift the cab instead of cables.
- Machine Room-Less (MRL) Elevator: It is an advanced elevator type that is compact and doesn’t require a machine room at all.
In Closing
The choice between a freight elevator and a service elevator depends on your needs. However, if you need expert advice deciding which lift is suitable for you, you can reach out to Mostar Lift. They have been in this industry for more than 2 decades and excel in design, manufacturing, installation and a host of elevator-related services. So don’t wait anymore, contact them today only.
