The escalator, which is a lifting and transport vehicle that provides the possibility of moving from one level to another, was invented in the 19th century. The inventor of this equipment is American Jess Renault. The first models of the escalator in the United States were a kind of attraction for tourists. They did not even have steps. Modern analogues first appeared at the beginning of the twentieth century in London. Today, this lifting and transport equipment is used in facilities for various purposes. It is used in the subway, shopping and exhibition centers, administrative buildings, airports and other structures.
Design features of escalators
Modern escalators consist of many components and mechanisms. It is impossible to imagine the operation of this equipment without such components as balusters, winch, main drive, entrance platform, metal frame, handrails, control station, drive circuits and, of course, steps. It is the steps that are the basis of this lifting and transport device. The steps of the escalator, as a rule, consist of a metal frame and 4 rollers on bearings. The width of the steps should be at least 60 cm. This size is designed for one passenger. To accommodate two passengers, it is recommended to use steps, the width of which reaches 100 cm.
It should also be noted that the steps of modern escalators are usually made of materials, the basis of which are fibrous organic fillers. This is due to the fact that such materials have a low level of friction. From fibrous materials, videos and bushings are produced, which are important components of the escalator steps. Also, steps are equipped with plastic overlays, runners and brackets designed to fix rollers.
The advantages of modern escalators
In conclusion, it is worth highlighting the main advantages of the data of lifting and transport vehicles. Firstly, they have a high level of throughput. Modern escalators are able to move an order of magnitude more passengers than funicular, elevators or any other lifting equipment. Secondly, these devices can continuously transport passengers who do not have to waste time waiting for the arrival of the lifting agent. Thirdly, with escalators you can use even in case of their breakdown. In this case, they can serve as an ordinary staircase.
