Screw Driven Platform Lift

Screw Driven Platform Lift

This lift has the following standard features:

• travel up to 13 metres – 6 stops
• standard platform sizes variable
• 50mm deep pit required, or ramp can be provided
• 400kg rated load
• landing swing doors – up to 3 per landing
• headroom 2250mm
• a gate can be provided at the top level, 1300mm high
• customised finishes available
• single phase supply
• minimal building work required

A screw-driven platform lift is a type of vertical transportation system designed to move people or goods between different levels of a building. It operates on a mechanical principle where a rotating screw, often a large threaded rod, drives the vertical movement of the lift platform. This type of lift is particularly common in residential settings, small commercial buildings, and locations where conventional elevators are impractical due to space constraints or cost considerations.

How It Works:
The key component of a screw-driven lift is the screw itself, which is typically made of steel and runs vertically through the lift shaft. The platform, which carries passengers or cargo, is attached to a nut or carriage that threads onto the screw. When the screw rotates, the nut is either raised or lowered, depending on the direction of rotation. This movement, in turn, raises or lowers the platform.

The screw is driven by an electric motor, which provides the rotational force necessary to move the platform. The motor is often located at the top of the lift shaft, though it can also be positioned at the base or in a remote location depending on the lift design. The screw-driven mechanism is highly reliable and requires minimal maintenance compared to other lift types like hydraulic or cable-driven systems.

Advantages:

• Space Efficiency: Screw-driven lifts are compact and do not require a machine room or complex pulley systems, making them ideal for installations in tight spaces.
• Safety: The nature of the screw drive means that the platform is mechanically locked in place when the motor stops, which reduces the risk of free-fall in case of power failure.
• Low Maintenance: With fewer moving parts and no need for hydraulic fluids, these lifts generally require less maintenance than hydraulic lifts.
• Smooth Operation: Screw-driven lifts can provide a smooth and steady ride, particularly when equipped with advanced motor control systems that regulate the speed and acceleration.
• Customisation: These lifts can be easily customised in terms of size, capacity, and design, making them versatile for a range of applications.

Applications:
Screw-driven platform lifts are commonly used in residential homes for accessibility purposes, allowing individuals with mobility issues to move between floors. They are also employed in small commercial buildings, warehouses, and industrial settings where the installation of a full-sized elevator might not be feasible.

Considerations:
While screw-driven platform lifts offer many advantages, they do have some limitations. They are generally slower than hydraulic or traction elevators and may produce more noise during operation. Additionally, the load capacity is typically lower, making them more suitable for lighter-duty applications.

Overall, screw-driven platform lifts represent a practical and efficient solution for vertical transportation in situations where space, cost, and safety are critical factors.

All our bespoke platform lifts are designed and manufactured in the UK.