Magnets in elevators

Published: 2023-03-16 10:01:35 • Daniel Gårdefelt

Elevators have become a part of our daily life, making it easy for us to move between floors and buildings. Magnetic materials are essential to the operation of elevators, as they provide the necessary force to move the elevator car and ensure passenger safety. In this blog post, we will explore the different magnetic materials used in elevators.

Permanent magnets
Permanent magnets are the type of magnet most often used in elevators. Materials such as neodymium have significant magnetic properties. Permanent magnets are used in elevators for two primary functions: to generate a force that pulls the elevator car up or down, and to provide a braking force that prevents the elevator car from moving when not in use.

Electromagnets
Electromagnets are another form of magnetic system often used in elevators. Electromagnets, unlike ordinary permanent magnets, require an electric current to produce a magnetic field. Electromagnets are used in the same way as permanent magnets in elevators: they create a magnetic field that pulls the elevator car up or down, and provides a braking force that prevents the elevator car from moving when not in use.

Steel
Steel is a ferromagnetic material that is often used in elevator cars and guide rails. The elevator car and guide rails are normally built of steel to provide strength and longevity. The doors and frames of the lift cabinet are also made of steel for increased strength and safety.

Copper
Copper is another frequent material used in elevators due to its electrical conductivity. Copper is used in the windings of elevator motors to provide a conduit for the electrical current. Copper is also used in elevator control systems and wiring to ensure that the elevator operates efficiently and reliably.

Plastic bound magnets
Plastic bound magnets such as magnetic strips and magnetic mats are injection molded magnets that use ferrite and a plastic mixture. These are used for a variety of functions in elevators. Typically, plastic-bound magnets are used in elevator door sensors to detect the location of the elevator car and ensure that the doors open and close safely.

Magnets play an important role in the operation of elevators, providing the necessary force to move the elevator car and ensuring the safety of passengers. Permanent magnets, electromagnets, steel, copper, and plastic bound magnets are some of the most commonly used magnetic materials in elevators, and each has its own distinct properties and purposes.