Evaluating the Existing Elevator System
September 2, 2015
In making decisions about a major elevator modernization, once you have considered tenant requirements, competing properties in the area, and elevator technology purchases, it’s time for the second critical step. This involves accurately evaluating the condition of the existing elevator system, the remaining useful service life of major components such as the hoist machine, measurement of the existing ride quality, potential for energy conservation, and potential for reduction in electromagnetic interference that builds up over time as buildings age.
Aesthetic considerations such as renovation of elevator lobbies and, in particular, an upgrading of elevator cab interior finishes to a contemporary appearance, have a major impact on the proper selection of equipment for modernization. Once this survey is complete, the results obtained during the analysis of building use and tenant requirements can be overlaid to accurately determine the proper scope of an elevator modernization.
Based on a modernization plan derived from the results of a tenant analysis and survey of the existing equipment, it is common that a number of building upgrades also will be required. Since the elevator or escalator equipment was originally installed, or previously modernized, the building, life safety, and elevator safety codes will have seen changes. Some of these changes will require certain elevator components to be included as part of the equipment modernization. Other changes, related to changes within elevator safety codes, may be required to existing building systems as a result of modernizing the equipment.
Armed with the results obtained from a tenant analysis and analysis of competitive properties in the area, an existing equipment survey, interest in reducing energy consumption, code compliance evaluation, aesthetic goals, and long-term asset preservation and enhancement goals, a solid modernization plan can be developed. This plan is then used to develop the appropriate specifications for the modernization and necessary related building work needed for code compliance as a result of the equipment modernization.
Today's tip comes from Jay Popp.
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