Hydraulic elevator modernization – Chicago, IL – Fireman’s Emergency Operation mandate upgrade FEO

 

We recently completed an elevator modernization on a 7 stop hydraulic elevator in Chicago, IL.  The existing Dover Elevator was installed in 1999.  The City of Chicago had a Fireman’s Emergency Operation mandate requirement for Phase II operation to be in compliance by 1/1/17.  The Dover DMC platform failed one of the items the City of Chicago mandated and the building opted to modernize their elevator system in lieu of attempting a software/wiring update or fire service auxiliary panel.

Elevator Controller – Smartrise Engineering

Elevator Hydraulic Power Unit – MEI

Elevator Door Operator – GAL

Elevator Fixtures – Innovation

 

Elevator control system – The existing control system was a bullet proof Dover DMC which was operating well and reliably.  We replaced the DMC with a Smartrise Engineering control system.

 

Elevator hydraulic power unit – The building was a 60’+ bore hole hydraulic so we opted to replace it with a dry unit.  At one time there was a feeling that submersible power units where the answer for all hydraulic elevator needs.  For higher travels, we have retained dry units for the efficiency of motors and reduction in hydraulic noise.  We worked with Minnesota Elevator on the power unit.  The unit is fairly large but it sounds and operates great.

 

Elevator door operating system – We replaced the Dover door operator with a GAL MOVFR.  Along with the door operator replacement we replaced all the rollers, interlock contacts, clutch release rollers, clutch, gibs, etc. 

 

Elevator fixtures – The Dover Impulse series elevator fixtures were replaced with all new Innovation Industries hall and car fixtures.

Challenges - We had a few challenges on the project:

Power unit size – This new power unit was massive and the machine room was not big.  Our engineering, shop and project teams made the swap like clockwork.  Most of the credit is for our project team for the heavy lifting. 

Door operator & cab height – The elevator has a very tall cab and center parting doors which made the geometry of the arms challenging.  We worked with GAL and the operator went on great with no issues.

Time line – The building wanted the replacement to be completed with limited downtime.  The project team worked 12 hour days and delivered the elevator on time. The inspection went great and the building got their elevator back to service as discussed months prior. 

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If you have any questions or would like additional information feel free to contact me at CraigZ@colleyelevator.com or 630-766-7230 ext. 107 or on our web page at www.colleyelevator.com

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