1. Classification by Handrail Decoration
1) Fully Transparent Type: Refers to escalators where the handrail skirt panels are constructed entirely from transparent glass. Based on the shape of the glass used for the skirt panels, this category can be further subdivided into the curved-glass type and the flat-glass type.
2) Opaque Type: Refers to escalators where the handrail skirt panels are constructed from opaque metal or other materials. Since the handrail belt supports are anchored to the upper section of the skirt panels-guiding the handrail belt as it moves in a continuous loop along the support rails-the opaque type offers superior structural stability compared to the fully transparent type. This design is primarily utilized for high-rise escalators in high-traffic areas such as subway stations, railway terminals, and ferry docks.
3) Semi-transparent Type: Refers to escalators featuring semi-transparent handrail skirt panels-for instance, those constructed using materials such as semi-transparent glass.
In terms of handrail decoration, fully transparent glass skirt panels possess adequate structural strength (with a minimum recommended thickness of 6 mm). Furthermore, given their superior aesthetic appeal, escalators featuring flat, fully transparent glass skirt panels constitute the vast majority of installations.
2. Classification by Step Drive Mechanism
1) Chain-Driven Type: Refers to escalators in which the steps are driven by a chain mechanism.
2) Rack-Driven Type: Refers to escalators in which the steps are driven by a rack-and-pinion mechanism.
Due to its structural simplicity and lower manufacturing costs, the chain-driven mechanism is the design adopted by the majority of escalators.
3. Classification by Lift Height
1) Low-Lift Escalators: Lift height ranging from 3 to 10 meters.
2) Medium-Lift Escalators: Lift height ranging from 10 to 45 meters.
3) High-Lift Escalators: Lift height ranging from 45 to 65 meters [1].
