High speed, low consumption: Energy efficiency class “A” for the world’s fastest double deck elevators

The four double deck elevators from ThyssenKrupp Elevator in the Shanghai World Financial Center represent milestones in elevator design. They transport passengers in the 492 meter tall building at speeds up to ten meters per second (36 km/h) – a world first for elevators of this type. Specially designed drives and aerodynamic cladding for cabs and doors make such speeds possible, while electronic roller guides guarantee low vibrations and a smooth ride. The four identical high-speed units also set standards when it comes to energy consumption: In a recent certification audit carried out by TÜV Rheinland in accordance with the internationally recognized standard VDI 4707, the double deck elevators received the highest possible rating – energy efficiency class “A”.

Key criteria that were met in achieving the highest of the seven energy efficiency classes “A” to “G” included energy consumption in standby and in regular operation. Another criterion was intensity of use in daily operation. This is defined in the VDI standard, ranging from level 1 for low-level operation in buildings with a maximum of six apartments, to level 5 for average operation of six hours a day. Due to their high-intensity operation, the four double-deck elevators in the Shanghai World Financial Center, which serve a sky lobby, have been assigned to the highest usage category under standard 4707.

The elevators’ low energy consumption is favored by the use of regenerative drives. Energy generated when the cabs are braked is converted into electricity and fed back into the supply grid. The power can then be re-used, among other things to operate the elevators, each of which consists of two connected cabs. The high efficiency of the type SF1000 drive also plays a role. Developed in Germany to the latest technical standards, it is the most powerful model in the ThyssenKrupp Elevator range with a maximum capacity of 5,000 kilograms.