Tower Lifts
Tower Lifts
How Do Hydraulic Lifts Work?
The Power of Simplicity – Understanding Hydraulic Lifting Technology
There are three main types of lift drive system: traction, electric (machine-room-less or MRL), and hydraulic. While traction and electric lifts use counterweights and pulley systems, hydraulic lifts operate on a fundamentally different principle – the controlled power of fluid pressure. This makes them a particularly attractive option for certain types of building and applications.
Hydraulic lifts are found in residential apartment buildings, commercial buildings, retail premises, and industrial settings like warehouses and factories. They are also frequently used for goods lifts and vehicle lifts, owing to their ability to lift heavy loads efficiently. Their robust design and relatively simple mechanics make them a reliable and cost-effective solution.
At Tower Lifts, we’ve been installing and maintaining hydraulic lifts since 2006. We understand this technology and are well-placed to answer the question: How do hydraulic lifts work?
How do Hydraulic Lifts Work?
When you press the button for a hydraulic lift, you’re setting in motion a clever use of fluid pressure. In a nearby machine room is the power unit, containing a motor, a pump, a valve, and a tank of hydraulic fluid. The motor powers the pump, which forces this fluid into a large cylinder located within the lift shaft. Inside this cylinder is a piston, and the lift car is attached directly to the top of it or via cables to provide indirect drive.
As the fluid is pumped into the cylinder, it pushes against the piston. Because liquids can’t be compressed, this pressure has to go somewhere—and it pushes the piston upwards, smoothly lifting the car. The speed of this upward movement is precisely controlled by the valve in the power unit, ensuring a smooth and comfortable ride.
Going down is even simpler. The control system opens the valve, allowing the fluid to flow back from the cylinder into the tank. The weight of the lift car itself provides the force for the descent—gravity does the work. But the valve still plays a vital role, carefully regulating the flow of fluid to ensure a smooth, controlled descent. It’s not a freefall; it’s a measured, gentle lowering.
Throughout this process, safety is the priority. A crucial safety feature is the rupture valve, which instantly stops the flow of fluid if a pipe were to fail, preventing the car from dropping. There’s also a backup system to lower the lift safely in a power outage. So, it’s the controlled movement of fluid, using pressure and gravity, that makes a hydraulic lift work so effectively.
Why Choose a Hydraulic Lift? The Advantages at a Glance
Your choice of lift will naturally be determined by your specific needs. Here’s why a hydraulic lift might be the right choice for you:
- Heavy Lifting Power – Hydraulic lifts excel at moving heavy loads, ideal for goods lifts, vehicle lifts, and industrial applications. This is due to the direct force of hydraulic pressure, making them incredibly robust and durable.
- Space Efficiency – They typically require a smaller machine room than traction lifts, offering greater design flexibility, especially in buildings where space is limited.
- Cost-Effectiveness – For buildings with 4-6 floors, hydraulic lifts often have a lower initial installation cost compared to traction systems.
- Smooth, Comfortable Ride – The direct action of the hydraulic piston provides a stable and smooth ride, thanks to a system that minimises mechanic vibrations.
In short, if you need to move heavy loads or passengers, or if space is a key consideration, a hydraulic lift offers a powerful, efficient, and cost-effective solution. At Tower Lifts, we can help you determine if it’s the right fit for your project.
Considering All Factors – Potential Considerations for Hydraulic Lifts
While hydraulic lifts offer numerous advantages, you need to consider all aspects before making your decision. Here are a few points to keep in mind:
- Limited Travel – Hydraulic lifts are generally best suited for low- to mid-rise buildings. For very tall buildings, traction systems are typically more efficient.
- Machine Room Requirement – Although smaller than those for traction lifts, hydraulic lifts do require a machine room to house the power unit. This needs to be factored into building design. MRL (machine-room-less) electric lifts eliminate this requirement altogether.
- Environmental Considerations – Traditional hydraulic fluid is oil-based. While biodegradable options are available, it’s worth considering the potential environmental impact and ensuring proper maintenance to prevent leaks.
- Slower Speed (Compared to Traction) – Hydraulic lifts generally operate at slower speeds than traction lifts, which may be a consideration in high-traffic buildings.
At Tower Lifts, we can help you weigh these factors against your specific needs to determine the ideal lift solution for your building.
Partnering with Tower Lifts – Expertise You Can Trust
Installing a lift drive is a significant investment, so partnering with an experienced installer is an important consideration. At Tower Lifts, we bring two decades of expertise to every hydraulic lift project, from initial design and installation to ongoing maintenance and repairs.
Our deep understanding of hydraulic systems allows us to create custom solutions for your specific needs. We assess your building’s requirements, including traffic flow, load capacity, and space constraints, to recommend the best hydraulic lift system. Our engineers handle every aspect of the installation process, ensuring an efficient process.
Beyond installation, we offer comprehensive maintenance and repair services to keep your hydraulic lift operating safely and reliably. We provide preventative maintenance, identifying and addressing potential issues before they become major problems. In the event of a breakdown, our rapid response team is available to provide prompt and efficient repairs, minimising downtime and disruption.
Work With Tower Lifts
At Tower Lifts, your safety and satisfaction are our top priorities. Our goal is to ensure your lifts not only meet legal requirements but also provide a safe and reliable experience for everyone.
Our commitment to quality is reflected in our accreditations, including ISO 9001:2015 for quality management, ISO 45001 for occupational health and safety, and UKAS LiftCert for industry best practices. We’re also members of LEIA, the Lift and Escalator Industry Association, ensuring we stay at the forefront of industry standards.