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The guide rail in an elevator is a key structural component that directs and stabilizes the movement of the elevator car and counterweight within the shaft. Installed vertically, these rails ensure the elevator travels smoothly without swaying or tilting.
Typically made of steel or aluminum and shaped like a "T", they work with rollers or sliding shoes to keep the elevator properly aligned. High manufacturing standards ensure their strength, precision, and safety during operation.
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.
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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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Run the elevator car slowly along the installed rails to check for smooth movement, ensuring there is no binding, swaying, or unusual noise.
