Products

What are Solid Guide Rails in Elevators?

Solid guide rails are one-piece, solid steel rails that guide and stabilize the vertical movement of the elevator car and counterweight.

They provide precise alignment, support operational loads, and serve as the braking surface for safety gear during emergency stops. Due to their high strength and rigidity, solid guide rails are commonly used in high-speed, heavy-load, and high-rise elevator applications.

The difference between Solid Guide Rails and Others

Solid guide rails

Solid guide rails are made from a single piece of steel or aluminum and are known for their superior strength, stability, and long service life. They are the preferred choice for high-rise buildings or elevators that carry heavy loads, as they provide excellent alignment and resist swaying under pressure.

Hollow guide rails

Hollow guide rails, on the other hand, are lighter in weight and easier to install. While they do not offer the same level of strength as solid rails, they are a practical and cost-effective solution for mid-rise or residential buildings, where the load requirements are lower. However, their average lifespan is typically shorter.

Closed-end hollow guide rails

Closed-end hollow rail is a type of elevator guide rail that features a hollow interior structure but with sealed or reinforced ends, providing a balance between weight reduction and structural strength.

Compared to open-center hollow rails, the closed-end design improves rigidity and durability, making it more stable under load while still being lighter than solid guide rails. This type of rail is typically used in mid-rise or machine room-less (MRL) elevator systems, where installation space is limited and reduced weight is beneficial.

How to Choose between Solid Guide Rails and Others?

Choose Solid Guide Rails When:

• The elevator is for a high-rise or heavy-load application (e.g., freight or high-capacity passenger elevators).

• You need maximum stability, durability, and smooth operation at higher speeds.

• Long service life (often decades) is a priority.

• Space and installation effort are less of a concern.

• The budget allows for a higher upfront cost in exchange for lower long-term maintenance.

How to Install Solid Guide Rails?

Prepare the Shaft

Before installation, thoroughly inspect the elevator shaft for cleanliness and structural integrity. Mark precise vertical reference lines on the shaft walls to ensure accurate positioning of the guide rails.

Fix Rail Brackets

Securely fix rail brackets or supports to the shaft walls at specified intervals, following engineering specifications. These brackets hold the guide rails firmly in place.

Install the Guide Rails

Lift the guide rails into position, aligning them carefully with the marked reference lines. Attach the rails to the brackets using rail clips or bolts, ensuring a tight and stable fit.

Align Vertically

Use precision measuring tools such as laser levels and plumb lines to verify the rails are perfectly vertical and parallel. Make any necessary adjustments to avoid misalignment that could affect elevator operation.

Secure and Inspect

Tighten all fasteners to the recommended torque and perform a thorough inspection to confirm the rails are securely installed, stable, and meet all safety standards.

Test the Movement

Run the elevator car slowly along the installed rails to check for smooth movement, ensuring there is no binding, swaying, or unusual noise.