The Energy Efficiency of Machine Room-Less Elevators

Hydraulic elevators operate through a pump-driven system that moves hydraulic fluid through a cylinder to lift and lower the elevator car. This process can require significant energy, particularly during peak operational hours, and may generate excess heat that necessitates additional cooling systems.

MRL traction elevators, including those manufactured by KONE, use a counterweight system that offsets the weight of the elevator car and passengers, helping to reduce the power required for operation. Since less motor power is needed to lift and lower the elevator, overall energy consumption may be lower. In most cases, traction elevators consume less energy than hydraulic systems, making them a smart choice for energy-conscious building owners.

KONE’s regenerative drive technology is designed to enhance energy efficiency. When an elevator moves downward with a heavy load or upward with a light load, it can generate excess energy. Instead of dissipating this energy as heat, KONE’s regenerative drive captures and converts it back into usable electricity, which may then be fed into the building’s power grid. This technology has the potential to reduce energy consumption and support cost savings over time.

Hydraulic elevators require hydraulic fluid to function, which may require maintenance and responsible disposal over time. In some cases, leaks or spills could pose environmental risks and necessitate remediation efforts (including reporting the incident to local authorities, depending on the jurisdiction).

KONE’s MRL traction elevators operate without the need for hydraulic fluid, eliminating concerns related to fluid maintenance and potential environmental impact. This design feature supports sustainability goals by reducing reliance on oil-based systems.

The operation of hydraulic elevators can generate substantial heat, often requiring dedicated cooling systems to maintain performance. These cooling requirements can contribute to additional energy consumption and increased operational costs.

By contrast, MRL traction elevators, such as those offered by KONE, are engineered to minimize heat output. The gearless motor design and energy-efficient components help reduce the need for auxiliary cooling measures, which may contribute to lower energy usage and HVAC costs in some buildings.

Many building owners and developers seek to align with sustainability certifications such as LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) and BREEAM (Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Method). Energy-efficient elevator solutions, such as KONE’s MRL traction elevators, can support these initiatives by integrating energy-saving technologies and environmentally conscious design features.

Choosing energy-efficient elevator systems may help developers and property owners improve their sustainability profiles, potentially enhancing property value, attracting environmentally conscious tenants, and optimizing operational efficiency.

A: MRL traction elevators can consume significantly less energy than hydraulic systems due to their counterweight design and regenerative drive technology, which captures excess energy and feeds it back into the building's power grid.

A: While elevators themselves do not receive LEED certification, their energy-efficient features can contribute toward achieving LEED points for a building’s overall sustainability goals.

A: MRL elevators require less space and have fewer components that need maintenance compared to hydraulic systems, reducing long-term operational costs and simplifying upkeep.

For building owners seeking to improve energy efficiency, MRL traction elevators present a compelling alternative to hydraulic systems. Features such as reduced energy consumption, regenerative drive technology, the elimination of hydraulic fluid, and lower heat generation contribute to sustainability efforts and operational cost efficiency.

By exploring the benefits of MRL traction elevators, property owners can make informed decisions that align with energy conservation goals and long-term sustainability objectives.

Ready to improve your building’s sustainability with energy-efficient elevators? Contact KONE today to learn how our innovative elevator solutions can support your energy-saving goals!