The Challenge – Speedy Install is a Winner
March 22, 2017
The Challenge – Retrofit In Time for School
March 7, 2019The Challenge
Retrofit elevator projects are common for Phoenix Modular Elevator. However, the challenge was to build and install a durable retrofit custom elevator in the middle of an existing five-story building quickly.
The purpose of the elevator was to increase accessibility for students, faculty, staff and visitors to Morthland College. The major requests from the customer included quick completion and fair cost. Also, durability was a major concern, as the elevator would get a lot of use during each semester.
After the hole was cut in the roof and the lower floors. the Phoenix Modular Elevator was lowered into place.
After the hole was cut in the roof and the lower floors. the Phoenix Modular Elevator was lowered into place.
The crane lower the elevator hoistway with the elevator and machinery inside. The Phoenix Modular Elevator was craned into place and ready for inspection in less than one week.
Morthland College wanted durable baked enamel finishes on their elevator doors in a color to compliment their interior design.
The Solution
The Phoenix Modular Elevator team met with the Morthland personnel and discussed the goals and needs of the project. They then went to work with the goals in mind to produce the solution they needed.
This project started with two 4" x 4" tube steel frames with proper door openings and supports. The frame was then welded, aligned, squared and plumbed and covered in fire-rated drywall. What makes Phoenix Modular Elevator so unique is that the elevator is constructed horizontally. Also, to further ensure safety and quality, the elevator can be rotated.
The elevator doors, frames and guide rails were then installed and aligned. Using the horizontal manufacturing process allows for easy access and inspection of the rails. One of the final steps is the insertion of the elevator car, final wiring, testing and inspection.
A pit area needed to be prepared onsite prior to the final placement. When the pit floor was poured, anchor bolts were placed in the corners for the completed elevator and hoistway. A hole was left in the middle of the pit for drilling the in-ground jackhole. The hole was drilled, lined, and the jack was put into place. The lining of the hole is crucial as it protects against possible future leaks of hydraulic fluid. The entire finished elevator was lowered down through the roof and into the pit.
We were able to complete the project quickly. Manufacturing the elevator took eight weeks once we received signed approval drawings. Also, installation took less than a week. Phoenix Modular Elevator has the shortest lead time of any commercial-grade elevator. Also, the design was durable and we were able to complete the project under budget.
