Escalator Terminology Part 3 of 3
Welcome to the final part (part 3) of our Escalator Terminology series. Keep reading to continue your learning.
Sensors
Escalators are equipped with various sensors that monitor the speed, direction, and position of the steps. These sensors help to detect any malfunctions or safety issues, such as a step out of alignment or a foreign object on the escalator.
Skirt guard
This is a safety feature designed to prevent clothing or other objects from becoming trapped in the gap between the moving steps and the stationary skirt panel. The skirt guard typically consists of a barrier or shield that extends along the entire length of the escalator and is mounted on the inside of the skirt panel. The guard is designed to prevent passengers from accidentally coming into contact with the moving steps and to reduce the risk of entrapment or injury. The skirt guard is an essential safety feature of the escalator system and is required by many building codes and safety regulations.
Steps
The steps are the moving platforms that carry passengers up or down the escalator. Each step is made of sturdy materials such as aluminum, stainless steel or composites, and is designed to be slip-resistant for safety.
Step Chain
An escalator step chain is a key component of an escalator system that moves the steps along the inclined plane. It is a loop of interconnected metal plates that are linked together and driven by a motor to provide the motion needed to move the steps. The step chain is located beneath the escalator steps and is housed in a track that guides its movement. As the step chain rotates, it engages with the escalator steps, causing them to move in a continuous loop. The step chain is designed to be durable and reliable, with regular maintenance and inspection required to ensure its proper function and safe operation of the escalator.
Step Demarcation Line
An escalator rise step demarcation line is a visual indicator located on the top surface of an escalator step that serves to define the boundary between each step and to aid passengers in safely navigating the escalator. It is typically a series of colored lines or stripes painted or applied to the step’s surface and can be customized to match the aesthetics of the surrounding environment. The demarcation line helps passengers to see where each step begins and ends, reducing the risk of tripping or falling when stepping onto or off the escalator. It also provides a visual cue for passengers to maintain proper spacing between themselves and others on the escalator, promoting safe and efficient passenger flow.
Step Tread
An escalator step tread is the part of the escalator step that people step on while riding the escalator. It is the horizontal surface that provides traction and support for passengers as they move up or down the escalator. The tread is typically made of a durable material such as aluminum or rubber, and is designed to withstand constant use and wear. The surface of the tread may also have grooves or ridges to enhance traction and prevent slipping
Trailing Roller
An escalator trailing roller is a component located at the end of an escalator that helps to guide and support the moving steps as they rotate around the lower and upper drive chains. It typically consists of a series of interconnected rollers or wheels that rotate as the escalator steps move along the track. The trailing roller helps to prevent the steps from sagging or twisting during operation, ensuring that they remain level and stable for passengers to step on and off safely. It also helps to maintain proper spacing between the steps, reducing the risk of passengers’ clothing or other objects becoming trapped in the gap between the steps.
Trailing Track
An escalator trailing track is a component of an escalator system that guides and supports the movement of the step chain. It is located at the bottom of the escalator, behind the last step, and is typically made of steel or other durable materials. The trailing track is designed to accommodate the movement of the step chain as it travels in a continuous loop, and to prevent it from slipping off the track. It is also responsible for maintaining the correct tension of the step chain and preventing it from becoming loose or derailing
Truss
This is the structural frame that supports the entire escalator system. The truss is made of steel or aluminum and is designed to withstand the weight of the escalator and the passengers using it.
Upper Sprocket
An escalator upper sprocket is a component of an escalator system that helps to drive the step chain and move the escalator steps. It is located at the top of the escalator, above the upper landing, and is typically made of steel or other durable materials. The upper sprocket is part of the drive mechanism that powers the step chain and is connected to the motor that drives the escalator. As the motor turns, the upper sprocket rotates, causing the step chain to move and the steps to travel in a continuous loop.
