Design of Escalator Pit

[drago8]

Dear All,

May I know what are the factors taken when designing escalator pit?

Thanks.

#LoveWins

 

[BUGGAR]

Make it large enough for mechanics to access the parts. Don't just rely on the escalator manufacturers recommended pit dimensions. If you can, put fittings in the walls for pulling things. Better yet, watch escalator pit maintenance operations in person.

 

[jayrod12]

Buggar, I was always under the impression that the elevator shops and your pit size on site has to match (within construction tolerances). How much larger can your pit be before the rails etc don't work with their standard hardware?

Nevermind, I read elevator, not escalator.

 

[drago8]

Dear Buggar,

Usually when you design for the wall and the base slab, what load do we take?

Dear Jayrod12,

No problem ^^

#LoveWins

 

[BUGGAR]

Code loads. Usually these pits are small enough that "standard" pit wall, slab and reinforcing works well. Minimum code reinforcing is usually more than adequate. Pick wall, slab, and rebar details that are EASY to build. Pits must not be rocket science.
I like to specify lifting loop inserts in the walls spaced around the pit so the mechanics can pull the motors and stuff. I put spare inserts in the corners with spare lifting eyes to replace lost ones. Usually, the money people don't pay any attention to pit details so I like to "fancy them up" for the guys that will be down in them. Also, have the electrical designer run more light fixtures in the hole.