The Need to Go Vertical

Vertical transport at construction sites for high rise structures with a height of 30 m (equivalent to 10 typical floors) and above is a critical need of the construction industry, says MUKESH KANODRA. The construction lift completes the need for workers, supervisors, engineers, consultants and end-users for travelling vertically. They are also used for transporting materials like floor tiles, plumbing materials, electrical accessories, doors, windows, etc. Permanent lifts can be installed only after reaching full height of the structure with lift shaft and machine room. Types of construction lifts Rack and pinion type: This has an enclosed cage with machine mounted on cage top, pinions moving on rack mounted on a structure known as mast, and is erected outside and adjacent to an RCC structure. Traction type: Construction lift can be erected inside an RCC structure. A machine unit can be erected on top with necessary support of beams and channels. Machine comes with high torque motor coupled with worm reduction gear, brake and pulley for fixing ropes to car and cwt. Traction type has high reliability and uptime, lower maintenance, safe and smooth performance and cost effectiveness compared to rack and pinion type construction lift. Construction lifts are used in a hostile atmosphere, hence all safety precautions of construction activities must be maintained during installation and use of lift. Use of construction lift in high rise results in effective utilisation of working hours of labours, better supervision, effective project management, quality control and coordination, benefits in timely project completion and overall cost savings. About the Author: Mukesh Kanodra, Partner, Sagar Construction Lifts, has more than 40 years of experience in the elevator industry. (Communication by the management of the company)