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The Elevator PeopleMade in Winnipeg, MB
All simple guides

BUILDING OWNERS / VIDEO GUIDE

How an Elevator Works

A simple visual introduction to the machinery behind an ordinary elevator ride.

The basic idea

A traction elevator is a balanced lifting system. An electric machine moves ropes or belts connected to the elevator car and a counterweight. Because the counterweight balances much of the car’s weight, the machine does not have to lift the full load by itself.

This animation gives a clear overview of the car, counterweight, traction machine, suspension system, guide rails, doors and principal safety equipment. It is a useful starting point before reading about each component in more detail.

Video source

“How does an Elevator work?” — Jared Owen on YouTube

This video is embedded from YouTube and remains the property of its creator. The Elevator People is linking to it as an educational resource.