Elevator Removal vs. Dismantling
At first glance, the process of removing or dismantling an elevator may seem intricate and daunting. Distinguishing between these two procedures can be especially perplexing. However, with the right knowledge and a skilled team of elevator technicians, you can confidently navigate the decommissioning process.
Our comprehensive guide aims to clarify the complexities of elevator removal and dismantling, helping to dispel any uncertainties you may have. We can also recommend contractors and authorities to help you secure the necessary approvals and arrange all required documentation for your elevator or escalator’s dismantling or removal.
ELEVATOR REMOVAL
First and foremost, it’s essential to understand the difference between elevator removal and dismantling. Both processes involve decommissioning an elevator, but they differ significantly in their approach.
Elevator removal entails the complete extraction of all elevator components from the premises. After removal, the building is left with only the empty elevator shaftway and motor room. Every piece of equipment and wiring is meticulously removed.
This method is more permanent and typically incurs higher costs compared to dismantling an elevator.
DISMANTLING AN ELEVATOR
Dismantling an elevator is a more economical alternative to removal, while still legally decommissioning the elevator. This option is advantageous if removal is not feasible due to budget constraints or if a less permanent decommissioning solution is desired. Dismantling allows for the future restoration of the elevator without the need for servicing and maintaining an inactive elevator.
During dismantling, electric wires, cables, and other components are removed. The elevator car and counterweight are securely lowered into the pit, which has sealed doors. Once dismantled, the elevator loses its power supply.
The specific components removed during dismantling vary based on the type of elevator. For traction elevators, hoist ropes are removed; for hydraulic elevators, the drive unit, system piping, and hydraulic fluid are extracted; and for platform lifts, the entire unit is removed from the premises. Enclosed lifts have their main power source disconnected.
In all cases, landing doors are permanently sealed from the shaftway side during dismantling, except for the bottom landing. All doors are mechanically secured with bolts from the interior, while the bottom landing is padlocked from the exterior. Maintaining closed landings is crucial for safety, and proper signage indicating an open shaftway must be displayed at each landing.
Both elevator removal and dismantling render the elevator legally decommissioned, eliminating the need for annual permits or inspections. The choice between removal and dismantling depends on the desired permanence of decommissioning and the budget allocated for the process.
When communicating with the contractor, remember the following details:
- Ensure the elevator car is positioned close to the pit or bottom floor.
- For hydraulic elevators, all hydraulic fluid from the reservoir and oil lines must be drained. The oil pipeline leading from the hoistway to the power unit should be opened and all drained fluid removed from the system.
- Remove the electrical lines for the submersible motor drive or the motor drive belts.
- For all roped hydraulic elevators, the governor and hoist ropes must be removed.
- Permanently switch off the electricity to the elevator control panel and the main disconnect.
- Ensure all landing doors, except for the lowest landing, which should be securely bolted shut, are closed and secured from the inside of the hoistway.
FAQ: Elevator Removal vs. Dismantling
Q1: What is the difference between elevator removal and dismantling? A1: Elevator removal involves the complete extraction of all elevator components, leaving only the empty shaftway and motor room. Dismantling, on the other hand, is a more economical method where key components are removed, but the structure can be restored in the future.
Q2: Why would I choose dismantling over removal? A2: Dismantling is typically chosen for budget reasons or when a less permanent decommissioning solution is desired. It allows for the elevator to be restored later without the need for ongoing maintenance of an inactive elevator.
Q3: What happens to the elevator components during dismantling? A3: Components like electric wires, cables, and other parts are removed. The elevator car and counterweight are securely lowered into the pit, and the power supply is disconnected. The specific components removed depend on the elevator type.
Q4: Is dismantling a legal way to decommission an elevator? A4: Yes, both dismantling and removal legally decommission the elevator, eliminating the need for annual permits or inspections.
Q5: What are the cost implications of elevator removal vs. dismantling? A5: Elevator removal is generally more costly due to the complete extraction process. Dismantling is a more cost-effective alternative, suitable for those with budget constraints or when a temporary solution is needed.
Q6: What safety measures are taken during dismantling? A6: Landing doors are permanently sealed from the shaftway side (except the bottom landing, which is padlocked). Proper signage indicating an open shaftway is displayed at each landing for safety.
Q7: Can an elevator be reactivated after dismantling? A7: Yes, one of the benefits of dismantling is that the elevator can be restored in the future without the obligation of maintaining an inactive elevator.
Q8: What should I discuss with the contractor before decommissioning my elevator? A8: Ensure the elevator car is positioned close to the pit or bottom floor, discuss the draining of hydraulic fluids for hydraulic elevators, remove electrical lines, and secure all landing doors except the lowest landing, which should be bolted shut.
If you plan to keep existing buildings to avoid decommissioning, you can communicate with the contractor for renovation or modernization.
