Elevator, Escalator 'Cruise Control' Can Save 34% in Power

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elevator buttonsInstalling efficiency controllers to the electric motors of elevators and escalators can help reduce the waste associated with such people movers that more often than not operate below capacity.

A recent test of a motor efficiency controller on two escalators (one up, one down) at Caesars Palace Hotel and Casino in Las Vegas showed that the average kilowatts used on the up escalator was reduced from 6.08 kW to 4.01 kW, or a 34 percent savings. For the down escalator, the savings were slightly better, with energy use dropping from 6.08 kW to 4 kW, or a 36.5 percent drop, according to a press release.

Power Efficiency Corp. used its E-Save technology in those Las Vegas tests.

The company says that most elevators and escalators run at 40 percent less than full load capacity at most times, because the motors are designed for heavist-case scenarios.

By using "cruise control" applications to regulate the electricity load based on the actual passenger weight, companies can save electricity, according to the release.

Environment + Energy Leader