Escalators

Escalators

Description
Description

Escalators, or moving staircases, are continuously circulating motorized stairways that move people between floors of a building. Often used in conjunction with elevators, or in situations where elevators would be impractical, escalators provide a convenient, efficient, and comfortable means of travel for people needing to ascend or descend through limited sets of building levels—with five or six floors being a functional limit.

Unlike elevators, escalators require no waiting time for use as they continue to move at a constant speed. If an escalator breaks down, loses power, or ceases to function, the escalator can still be used as a normal staircase in most scenarios. Escalators are often used in retail stores, shopping malls, airports, transit centers, convention centers, arenas and stadiums, hotels, public buildings, and can also be detailed with weatherproofing for outdoor use.

History
History

Escalators transformed the way we move in multi-story buildings. Initially envisioned in the late 19th century as an amusement ride, they quickly became essential for urban transit. Jesse Reno introduced the first "inclined elevator" in 1896 at Coney Island, and soon after, the design was refined into the modern escalator we recognize today. Over time, these moving staircases became integral to department stores, subways, and airports, enabling efficient upward mobility and revolutionizing pedestrian flow in bustling public spaces.

Future
Future

The future of escalators is smart and eco-friendly. Energy-saving designs, like motion-activated escalators that move only when needed, are on the rise. Advanced safety features, including sensors and enhanced grip designs, prioritize passenger well-being. In places like the Oslo Metro, LED lighting guides users, enhancing visibility. Modular designs allow for quicker installations and repairs. As cities grow and public spaces prioritize efficiency and safety, escalators will evolve, seamlessly integrating into our daily commutes and urban adventures.

Common Questions
Common Questions
When was the escalator invented?

The first patent for an escalator was filed by Nathan Ames in 1859, but it was not a practical design and was not developed further. The first working escalator was invented by Jesse W. Reno in 1892 and was patented in 1892. The first commercial installation of an escalator was in a department store in New York City in 1896 by the Otis Elevator Company.

How does an escalator work?

An escalator works by using a motor to power a series of interconnected steps that move along a track. The steps are flat and move on a slant, creating the illusion of climbing stairs. The steps move in an endless loop and are guided by a system of tracks and pulleys.

How have escalators changed over time?

Over time, escalators have undergone various changes and improvements. Safety features have been added, speed has increased, capacity has grown, energy efficiency has improved, design has become more visually appealing and accessibility has been taken into account. Modern escalators use less electricity, have features like regenerative drives and are designed to be more accessible for people with disabilities and mobility issues.

Buildings

* Under Development *

29.5’ | 9 m (Varies)
8’-10’8” | 2.44-3.28 m (Varies)
41’ | 12.5 m (Varies)
Continuous Escalators (Crossing)
900.000
328.000
1250.000
5
https://p3d.in/e/xq9jN
GUIDE
3D
Continuous Escalators (Crossing)View of Continuous Escalators (Crossing) in 3D available for downloadView of Continuous Escalators (Crossing) in 3D available for download
29.5’ | 9 m (Varies)
16’-21’6” | 4.88-6.55 m (Varies)
41’ | 12.5 m (Varies)
Continuous Escalators (Paired)
900.000
655.000
1250.000
5
https://p3d.in/e/gHKGS
GUIDE
3D
Continuous Escalators (Paired)3D model of Continuous Escalators (Paired) viewed in perspective3D model of Continuous Escalators (Paired) viewed in perspective
29.5’ | 9 m (Varies)
8’-10’8” | 2.44-3.28 m (Varies)
41’ | 12.5 m (Varies)
Continuous Escalators (Single)
900.000
328.000
1250.000
5
https://p3d.in/e/NgKeJ
GUIDE
3D
Continuous Escalators (Single)Perspective view of a 3D model of Continuous Escalators (Single)Perspective view of a 3D model of Continuous Escalators (Single)
29.5’ | 9 m (Varies)
8’-10’8” | 2.44-3.28 m (Varies)
41’ | 12.5 m (Varies)
Discontinuous Escalators (Paired)
900.000
328.000
1250.000
0
https://p3d.in/e/SJ4yo
GUIDE
3D
Discontinuous Escalators (Paired)View of Discontinuous Escalators (Paired) in 3D available for downloadView of Discontinuous Escalators (Paired) in 3D available for download
29.5’ | 9 m (Varies)
4’-5’4” | 1.22-1.63 m (Varies)
41’ | 12.5 m (Varies)
Discontinuous Escalators (Single)
900.000
163.000
1250.000
0
https://p3d.in/e/U0JsR
GUIDE
3D
Discontinuous Escalators (Single)3D model of Discontinuous Escalators (Single) viewed in perspective3D model of Discontinuous Escalators (Single) viewed in perspective
14.75’ | 4.5 m (Varies)
8’-10’8” | 2.44-3.28 m (Varies)
41’ | 12.5 m (Varies)
Escalator (Paired)
450.000
328.000
1250.000
5
https://p3d.in/e/jmsi6
GUIDE
3D
Escalator (Paired)Perspective view of a 3D model of an Escalator (Paired)Perspective view of a 3D model of an Escalator (Paired)
14.75’ | 4.5 m (Varies)
4’-5’4” | 1.22-1.63 m (Varies)
41’ | 12.5 m (Varies)
Escalator (Single)
450.000
163.000
1250.000
20
https://p3d.in/e/ehrZP
GUIDE
3D
Escalator (Single)View of an Escalator (Single) in 3D available for downloadView of an Escalator (Single) in 3D available for download
Escalator & Moving Walkway Widths

The width of escalators is important as it affects the number of people that can use it at one time, reducing the time it takes for large numbers of people to move through a building. This is particularly important in crowded areas such as shopping centers, airports and train stations where escalators are used to move large numbers of people quickly and efficiently. It also provides more space for passengers to stand and move around, making it more comfortable for them. Extra width is helpful in cases where people are carrying large bags, shopping carts or other items, as it gives them more room to maneuver.

When calibrating the appropriate width of an escalator or moving walkway, three standard design widths for use are 24”, 32”, 40” (61, 82, 102 cm). 24” (61 cm) widths are suitable for only one person at a time and are best used when traffic is limited or space is a concern. 32” (82 cm) wide designs offers more flexibility for the users and allow enough space for a second person to pass by. 40” (102 cm) widths provide space for two people and also are wide enough for two lanes of traffic.

Illustration of escalator widths of various dimensioned sizes with people for scale
The width of escalators is important as it affects the number of people that can use it at one time, reducing the time it takes for large numbers of people to move through a building. This is particularly important in crowded areas such as shopping centers, airports and train stations.

When calibrating the appropriate width of an escalator or moving walkway, three standard design widths for use are 24”, 32”, 40” (61, 82, 102 cm). 24” (61 cm) widths are suitable for only one person at a time and are best used when traffic is limited or space is a concern. 32” (82 cm) wide designs offers more flexibility for the users and allow enough space for a second person to pass by. 40” (102 cm) widths provide space for two people and also are wide enough for two lanes of traffic.

Illustration of escalator widths of various dimensioned sizes with people for scale
Escalator & Moving Walkway Widths
Height:
Width:
Length:
Depth:
Weight:
Area:

Width (Stairs/Walkway): 24”, 32”, 40” | 61, 82, 102 cm
Width (Deck): 4’, 4’8”, 5’4” | 122, 142, 163 cm
Width (General): 32”, 40”, 48” | 82, 102, 122 cm
Height (Escalator Deck): 3’8” | 112 cm
Height (Walkway Deck): 3’6” | 107 cm

Drawings include:
Escalator widths sections, moving walkway widths sections

Downloads

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Escalator (Single)
Group of scaled illustrations of various escalator types compared to the Escalator (Single)

Escalators are a form of vertical building transportation designed as a staircase that moves with the assistance of a motor-driven mechanism. Escalators are used to connect floors with an angle of rise between 30°-35°. The entire length of an escalator must also provide enough space for a lower zone of mechanical equipment along with a structural truss that averages around 3’8” (1.12 m) deep. Both ends of an escalator require structural supports and may also require intermediate supports depending on the length of the run.

Escalators cannot be used to meet building requirements for fire exits. When specifying an escalator installation, consult directly with the manufacturer for accurate sizes, capacity calculations, speeds, and structural requirements.

For the safety of users, escalators must incorporate 3’ (.91 m) handrails and preserve a minimum vertical headroom clearance of 7’6” (2.29 m). Adequate space should be provided at each loading or discharge platform of an escalator for easy queuing and waiting at peak hours—typically 7’6” (2.29 m) at the bottom and 8’ (2.44 m) at the top. An Escalator (Single) has a typical height of 14.75’ (4.5 m), length of 41’ (12.5 m), and common width between 4’-5’4” (1.22-1.63 m). Dimensions will vary based on the desired length and height.

Drawing of an Escalator with dimensions showing required height clearances, lengths, and depths
Escalators are a form of vertical building transportation designed as a staircase that moves with the assistance of a motor-driven mechanism. Escalators are used to connect floors with an angle of rise between 30°-35°. The escalator must also provide space for a lower zone of mechanical equipment.

For the safety of users, escalators must incorporate 3’ (.91 m) handrails and preserve a minimum vertical headroom clearance of 7’6” (2.29 m). Adequate space should be provided at each loading or discharge platform of an escalator for easy queuing and waiting at peak hours—typically 7’6” (2.29 m) at the bottom and 8’ (2.44 m) at the top. An Escalator (Single) has a typical height of 14.75’ (4.5 m), length of 41’ (12.5 m), and common width between 4’-5’4” (1.22-1.63 m). Dimensions will vary based on the desired length and height.

Drawing of an Escalator with dimensions showing required height clearances, lengths, and depths
Escalator (Single)
Height:
14.75’ | 4.5 m (Varies)
Width:
4’-5’4” | 1.22-1.63 m (Varies)
Length:
41’ | 12.5 m (Varies)
Depth:
Weight:
Area:

Angle of Rise: 30°-35°
Height (Handrail):
3’ | .91 m
Clearance (Headroom): 7’6” | 2.29 m minimum
Landing Length (Bottom): 7’6” | 2.29 m
Landing Length (Top): 8’ | 2.44 m
Depth (Truss): 3’8” | 1.12 m

Drawings include:
Escalator side elevation, plan, front

Downloads

2D Downloads

3D Downloads

Continuous Escalators (Paired)
Size comparison diagram of the Continuous Escalators (Paired) compared to other similar escalator types

Paired Continuous Escalator systems combine two sets of single continuous escalator systems side-by-side. Though inefficient in space planning, this system creates a consolidated and functional destination within a floorpan that allows direct access to multiple floors. Paired continuous layouts can be stacked vertically to further systematize a path of effective travel in buildings requiring productivity and access to various floors. This strategy works best in vertical offices, large department stores, and public transportation centers that can benefit from an efficient bank of escalators.

Continuous Escalators (Paired) have a combined height of 29.5’ (9 m), length of 41’ (12.5 m), and common width between 16’-21’6” (4.88-6.55 m). Dimensions will vary based on the desired length and height.

Dimensioned elevation drawings of Continuous Escalators (Paired) measured with length, width and height
Paired Continuous Escalator systems combine two sets of single continuous escalator systems side-by-side. Though inefficient in space planning, this system creates a consolidated and functional destination within a floorpan that allows direct access to multiple floors.

Continuous Escalators (Paired) have a combined height of 29.5’ (9 m), length of 41’ (12.5 m), and common width between 16’-21’6” (4.88-6.55 m). Dimensions will vary based on the desired length and height.

Dimensioned elevation drawings of Continuous Escalators (Paired) measured with length, width and height
Continuous Escalators (Paired)
Height:
29.5’ | 9 m (Varies)
Width:
16’-21’6” | 4.88-6.55 m (Varies)
Length:
41’ | 12.5 m (Varies)
Depth:
Weight:
Area:

Direction: Parallel two-way
Circulation: Efficient, fast, direct
Uses:
Large department stores, office buildings, public transport

Drawings include:
Paired Continuous Escalators side elevation, front, plan

Downloads

2D Downloads

3D Downloads

Continuous Escalators (Crossing)
Group of scaled illustrations of various escalator types compared to the Continuous Escalators (Crossing)

Crossing Escalator arrangements provide the most efficient and continuous movement of people by separating each direction of travel into an individual uninterrupted path. Alternating directions in systematic structural stacks, crisscrossing escalators should be considered when space planning and productivity are critical design objectives. The crossing escalator is most effective when servicing building programs that require fast travel between levels such as moving employees in large department stores, between floors of an office building, and for time sensitive public transportation centers.

Continuous Escalators (Crossing) have a combined height of 29.5’ (9 m), length of 41’ (12.5 m), and common width between 8’-10’8” (2.44-3.28 m). Dimensions will vary based on the desired length and height.

Elevation drawings of Continuous Escalators (Crossing) showing dimensioned analysis of their length, width and height
Crossing Escalator arrangements provide the most efficient and continuous movement of people by separating each direction of travel into an individual uninterrupted path. Crisscrossing escalators should be considered when space planning and productivity are critical design objectives.

Continuous Escalators (Crossing) have a combined height of 29.5’ (9 m), length of 41’ (12.5 m), and common width between 8’-10’8” (2.44-3.28 m). Dimensions will vary based on the desired length and height.

Elevation drawings of Continuous Escalators (Crossing) showing dimensioned analysis of their length, width and height
Continuous Escalators (Crossing)
Height:
29.5’ | 9 m (Varies)
Width:
8’-10’8” | 2.44-3.28 m (Varies)
Length:
41’ | 12.5 m (Varies)
Depth:
Weight:
Area:

Direction: Crossing two-way
Circulation: Efficient, fast, direct
Uses:
Large department stores, office buildings, public transport

Drawings include:
Single Crossing Escalators side elevation, front, plan

Downloads

2D Downloads

3D Downloads

Discontinuous Escalators (Single)
Size comparison diagram of the Discontinuous Escalators (Single) compared to other similar escalator types

Single Discontinuous Escalators are stacked escalators that connect levels in a single direction. This strategy works best when space is limited, but the one-way traffic is not efficient for people who want to travel quickly between levels. Single discontinuous escalators are generally used in small department stores and retail centers where the non-continuous arrangement encourages customers to slow down and explore more of the store. This discontinuous strategy can also be used with paired escalators.

Discontinuous Escalators (Single) have a combined height of 29.5’ (9 m), length of 41’ (12.5 m), and common width between 4’-5’4” (1.22-1.63 m). Dimensions will vary based on the desired length and height.

Dimensioned elevation drawings of Discontinuous Escalators (Single) measured with length, width and height
Single Discontinuous Escalators are stacked escalators that connect levels in a single direction. This strategy works best when space is limited, but the one-way traffic is not efficient for people who want to travel quickly between levels.

Discontinuous Escalators (Single) have a combined height of 29.5’ (9 m), length of 41’ (12.5 m), and common width between 4’-5’4” (1.22-1.63 m). Dimensions will vary based on the desired length and height.

Dimensioned elevation drawings of Discontinuous Escalators (Single) measured with length, width and height
Discontinuous Escalators (Single)
Height:
29.5’ | 9 m (Varies)
Width:
4’-5’4” | 1.22-1.63 m (Varies)
Length:
41’ | 12.5 m (Varies)
Depth:
Weight:
Area:

Direction: Single, one-way
Circulation: Slow, indirect
Uses:
Small department stores, retail centers

Drawings include:
Single Discontinuous Escalators side elevation, front, plan

Downloads

2D Downloads

3D Downloads