Escalator vs Elevator: A Comprehensive Comparison

Navigating multi-story buildings can be challenging and strenuous at the same time. People may ascend or descend stairs, which could limit accessibility for disabled individuals. This can eventually impact overall convenience as stairways can slow down the flow of people. But, did you know that an escalator or an elevator can be the best solution? Well, in this article we cover more about escalators and elevators along with its pros and cons. 

Understanding the Basics: Elevators and Escalators 

When you come across elevators, these are systems that are specifically designed for transporting goods and individuals. As soon as people walk inside a cab, they move vertically along a set of rails. In those instances, control systems ensure smooth operation of elevators. But, when you observe elevators, they operate with various mechanisms. These include hydraulic systems or electric motors and are usually used in multi-story buildings. While these are available in diverse sizes, there are high-speed versions for skyscrapers. Now, let’s check the main purpose of using escalators.

Escalators are nothing but moving staircases that take individuals from one level to the other. These comprise a series of stairs that move either up or down a track.  As these stairs are attached to the chain system, they transport people automatically. Most of the time, you will come across these elevators in shopping malls, transit stations, and airports. While these are used, they offer an efficient way to move many individuals without any effort. 

Difference between Escalators & Elevators

There’s a vast difference between escalators and elevators. Let’s check these in depth.

1. Functionality

While using elevators, these transport individuals or goods in the upward or downward direction across different levels. As people continue to use these relentlessly, they operate on traction cables. On the other hand, escalators consist of a chain fixed along a track. These only lead people up or down inside the building. However, while people are moving along the escalator, they may carry goods along with them.

2. Design

You will observe elevators with countless designs. However, the design entirely depends on the cabin size, and the way doors operate. Based on the purpose, a lift can sustain a weight of 10 to 15 people at the same time. In case the weight exceeds beyond a certain limit, then the lift will not work. In contrast, escalators run diagonally at an inclined angle. The entire structure is also not enclosed in any way and therefore they are easier to use. 

3. Maintenance

Both elevators and escalators take people to different levels of the building. But, it’s always essential to maintain elevators because they move in the vertical direction. After a certain period of time, experts have to check the cables and the mechanisms. Conversely, escalators are known for an open design. These require relatively less maintenance. Individuals only have to check whether the stairs are moving smoothly along the track.

4. Usage

Elevators are usually used in any kind of building. These can either be tall or with only a few floors. But, escalators can be used for a short distance. You may not come across escalators in buildings that have less floors. The energy consumption of escalators, on the contrary, is also quite more. This is because elevators run on pulleys that consume less amount of energy. 

Different types of escalators & elevators

Elevators often come in different types. Every type of elevator is designed for certain applications and requirements. Let’s now go through the main types.

1. Hydraulic Elevators

As such elevators operate, a hydraulic piston lifts and lowers the cab. This enables individuals to move smoothly. These elevators are found in buildings that have 5 or 6 floors. 

2. Traction Elevators

As far as the operations of these elevators are concerned, they run on pulleys driven by a motor. While these are efficient in tall buildings, they have high speed and offer precise control.

3. Machine Room-Less Elevators

This type of traction elevator is used with motor and control systems near the shaft. The builder will no longer need to set up a separate machine room. Besides being space-saving, these are quieter and energy-efficient. 

4. Pneumatic Elevators

With a significant air pressure difference, these elevators move the cap up or down. As these operate silently, they also need less maintenance. Moreover, when maintained properly, such elevators run smoothly. 

5. Cable-Driven Elevators

With the help of many cables and pulleys, these elevators move the cab vertically. Apart from being efficient, these also transport people across a long vertical distance. Due to its main function, these elevators are observed in high-rise buildings. 

Just like elevators, escalators are also available in different types. Here are some of them you can observe at different locations.

6. Standard Escalators

These are nothing but regular moving stairways that are used to transport people. You will find these usually in public buildings, transit stations and retail spaces. 

7. Heavy-Duty Escalators

Constructed to handle high passenger load, these are frequently used at different locations. Heavy-duty escalators are ideal to set up at shopping centers, airports, and transit hubs.

8. Outdoor Escalators

Such escalators are designed to withstand weather conditions with suitable materials. They are widely used at hillside locations or public parks.

9. Dual-Drive Escalators

Featuring two independent drive systems, these escalators are designed for enhanced safety. They are used in areas which experience high-traffic and when durability is essential.

Pros and Cons of Elevators

There are many pros and disadvantages of using elevators. Let’s check these in more detail.

What are the advantages of using elevators?

• Elevators are essential for some with disabilities. This ensures inclusivity in buildings that have many floors. 

• As elevators facilitate vertical transportation, these are used in commercial spaces and tall buildings. 

• Elevators usually run at high speeds. Therefore, builders use elevators when they want to transport people quickly. 

• When elevators are introduced in buildings, there isn’t any need for stairs. This eventually saves floor space in buildings especially in case of certain regions. 

What are the disadvantages of using elevators?

• Installation and maintenance of elevators can be unaffordable. This may involve significant upfront and ongoing costs. 

• Elevators can consume a considerable amount of energy especially in tall buildings. Hence, it can add on to the operational costs and affect the environment.

• While installing elevators, these may need a separate machine room. Once the experts are about to install the machine room, they will need considerable space within the building.

• Eventually, regular maintenance is needed to ensure safety and reliability. In case elevators start malfunctioning, then it can cause significant delays. 

What are the advantages of using escalators?

• Escalators offer a smooth flow of people even when it’s an extremely crowded area. These are useful in regions like transit stations, airports, and malls.

• These need less space as compared to usual elevators. You neither need a machine room or a large shaft.
• As escalators don’t need any support, people can use them with ease. These enhance the overall experience because buttons or controls are not used anytime.

• Generally, escalators are less expensive to install and maintain. People don’t have to use tools even when they’re used for a long time.

• Escalators are visible from a distance and they guide people effectively. Navigation is easier when people ascend or descend the moving stairway. 

What are the cons of using escalators?

• Escalators have the capability of transporting a limited number of individuals. It can be tough to carry large items when people are moving up or down.

• While diverse individuals use escalators, these may not be suitable for differently-abled people. Young children may also find it tough to move along the escalators.

• Frequent and regular maintenance is needed to keep the escalator operating smoothly. The flow can get disrupted in case there’s any downtime. 

• Escalators consume enormous energy while it’s in use. This can augment the operational costs especially during long operational hours. 

• Apart from everything else, escalators bring in some safety risks. Unexpected incidents are likely to occur due to improper maintenance of escalators.  

MAS Industries is India’s largest manufacturer and exporter of elevator components. Looking to install an elevator at your client’s building or installing parts, contact us.