Do All Elevators Break Down At Some Point in Their Lifespan?

It's a common perception that elevators break down frequently, especially in older models. However, a myriad of factors can contribute to an elevator shutting down. This article explores why elevators experience breakdowns and how such issues can be influenced by their age and design complexity.

The Anatomy of an Elevator

Understanding an elevator's internal workings can help clarify why they may break down. Similar to an automobile, an elevator consists of numerous intricate components including moving parts, electrical wiring, and computer systems.

Relay Logic vs. Solid State Electronics

Older elevators often lack the sophisticated computer controls found in modern models. Instead, they rely on relays—a less advanced but still operational method. Relay logic elevators use relays to control the movement, and this can be quite elaborate, especially when dealing with older models.

It wasn't until the late 1970s to early 1980s that major manufacturers began incorporating solid-state electronics into their controllers, though many still incorporate a mix of both modern and traditional components. This hybrid model, often still in use today, combines the reliability of solid-state circuits with the simplicity of relays.

Components at Work: Inside the elevator controller, you'll find a mix of relays, wiring, and circuit boards. For instance, the drive for the motor and a belt-driven encoder to verify motor speed are crucial parts of the system. These components can fail, leading to emergencies and shutdowns.

The Reasons Elevators Break Down

Here are some common reasons why elevators might break down:

Burnt Contacts or Relays: Relays can develop issues where their contacts become burnt, or they fail to activate properly, leading to malfunctions. Broken Wiring: A wire might break at a relay, causing the system to malfunction. Motor Drive Electronics: Solid-state components like SCRs (thyristors) in the motor controllers can fail, causing the elevator to shut down abruptly. Physical Components: The elevator car itself has many parts that can fail, including guides, cables, and door mechanisms.

Age and Maintenance Considerations

Building management companies sometimes fail to grasp the complexity and maintenance needs of elevators, particularly vintage ones. Vintage elevators from the 1960s and earlier are prone to frequent breakdowns due to their age and wear and tear.

Why Age Matters: As elevators age, the likelihood of breakdowns increases. The cost of maintaining and repairing these older systems can be prohibitive. Elevator companies are often unwilling to invest in frequent component replacements unless absolutely necessary, as the financial burden is too high.

Case in Point

For instance, in 1985, I worked on a controller for an elevator built in the late 1960s. While the components like the CPU board eventually fail and need replacement, these issues arise due to age and not necessarily poor design. Management companies often expect elevator performance to remain consistent, regardless of the elevator's age.

It's crucial for building owners and management companies to understand that vintage elevators require specialized maintenance and often fall into a cycle of regular breakdowns. The cost of maintaining these systems may drive many management companies to opt for upgrading their elevators rather than continuing to invest in repairs and replacements.

Conclusion

Inadequate understanding and maintenance of vintage elevators can lead to frequent shutdowns. While elevators of all ages may experience breakdowns, the factors contributing to these issues vary significantly. Understanding the intricacies of an elevator's design and the challenges posed by aging components can help in managing expectations and ensuring reliable elevator operation.

By recognizing the complexity and age-related issues of elevators, building management can make informed decisions about maintenance and upgrades, ultimately ensuring the safety and functionality of these essential building systems.