The evolution of lifts has seen rapid growth in the popularity of the screw driven lift which has remained less known in this expanding industry until recent years. In the past, the reliable mechanics and durability of traction and hydraulic lifts have resulted in them saturating the market. However, with budgets and space availability being reduced for many builds, the introduction of screw and nut driven lifts has been a welcomed advancement.
There is a lot to think about when choosing the correct lift, and it is essential to consider all the factors to ensure you select the ideal option for you. The following information provides insight into the workings of screw driven lifts and offers comparisons to some of its competitors.
How do screw driven lifts work?
Simple in their structure and approach to elevation, screw driven lifts consist of a platform lift that is attached to the drive nut that moves up and down the screw. This screw pole runs the entire length of the lift. With the push of a button, the nut rotates in one direction, moving the lift upwards. When rotated in the opposite direction, the lift is transported downwards.
Structural simplicity.
Oil is required for the effective use of screw driven lifts ensuring they operate smoothly and that the lifts are well maintained for life longevity.
Pros
- Cost-effective option – Relatively lower in price than hydraulic and traction lifts.
- Low maintenance – Structural simplicity means maintenance is generally only required 1-2 times per year.
- Space saving – Screw driven lifts require minimal space as they have no pit room, oil tank or machine room. This allows them to be easily installed in homes or commercial spaces without negatively impacting the surrounding aesthetics or requiring significant structural changes.
- Auto lubrication feature – Ensuring the longevity and safety of the lift due to the screw being oiled well at all times.
- Extended lifespan – 25 to 30 years with regular maintenance.
- Safety – Due to the automatic stop feature, if the motor ceases, the lift will not ‘dead drop’ like other lifts and will safely remain sitting on the thread.
- Easy to install – With no need for an extra machine room, headroom or lift pit, screw driven lifts can take as little as 2- 3 days to install.
- Aesthetically pleasing – Screw driven lifts consist of an open cabin with no cabin walls.
Cons
- Noisier than hydraulic lifts
- Reduced speed – Screw-driven lifts work slower than hydraulic lifts, making them incompatible with taller buildings of over six floors.
- Reduced weight capacity- Screw driven lifts can generally carry a maximum weight of approximately 500kgs, which is lower than that of hydraulic and traction lifts.
What’s the difference between a screw drive and a hydraulic drive?
Offering similar operating processes, both lifts are transported up and down a shaft-like system within an enclosed space or ‘tower’. As this tower is attached to a wall or via a hoistway, there is no need for an additional machine room in both screw-driven lifts or hydraulic lifts. However, the significant difference lies within the outworking of the mechanics in the lifts.
Screw-driven lifts consist of a large nut, a screw shaft and a motor, while common hydraulic lifts consist of pistons and reservoir pumps using hydraulic fluid to operate. As the motor spins in the shaft of the screw-driven lift, the nut rotates, moving the lift up and down. In direct comparison, the hydraulic lift functions as hydraulic fluid travels from its reservoir to the piston base causing it to rise. As fluid returns to the reservoir, the piston and the lift lower.
What’s right for you?
Finding the ideal lift for your home or commercial space is an important decision based on the area, budget and functionality limitations you are working within. From double-storey structures to multiple-level buildings, there is a wide variety of lift options for you to consider.
As experts in the industry, Axis Lifts will assess your requirements and factor in the pros and cons of the available options to ensure you choose the ideal lift for your space.
Both screw driven lifts and hydraulic lifts can be excellent options, and Axis lifts can assist you in defining what that final choice looks like for your upcoming build.
Call Axis Lift today on 1300 002 947 to talk to one of our lift specialists on how to get started.
The screw & nut lifts from Axis Lifts include Aritco Homelift, Aritco 4000, Aritco 6000
