BASIX recognises the following lift systems:
- Geared traction lift with VVAC motor– geared traction or cable lift that is powered with a variable voltage alternating current motor;
- Gearless traction lift with VVVF motor– gearless traction or cable lift that is powered with a variable voltage, variable frequency motor; and
- Hydraulic lift.
You will need to nominate the number of storeys served by each lift.
Drive types
A traction lift is powered by an electric motor (AC or DC) which is coupled to the hoisting mechanism through a reduction (worm) gear. The motion of the car is obtained through traction between the suspension ropes and the driving sheave. This is also known as a cable lift.
A hydraulic lift is driven by a pump which raises or lowers the lift car by varying the oil pressure in a ram. The pump is driven by an electric motor.
As a general rule of thumb, gearless traction lifts are more efficient than geared traction lifts. Traction lifts are also more efficient than hydraulic lifts, as they have a counterweight and do not waste heat by heating the oil used as the hydraulic medium.
Motor and controller types
There are several types of electric drives: AC 2-speed, AC Variable Voltage, AC Variable Voltage Variable Frequency (VVF), DC static drive and DC Ward-Leonard system.
With AC Variable Voltage Variable Frequency Drive (VVVF), the drive system's motor speed is controlled by varying the frequency and voltage of the applied Alternating Current (AC) supply. The system allows optimum frequency to produce the desired motion. The advantages of VVVF drive includes low starting current (about 1.8 x rated current); high power factor and efficiency; and good ride quality and floor leveling.
With Variable Voltage AC Drive (VVAC), the drive system's motor speed is controlled by varying the amplitude of the applied AC voltage. This form of control requires high current and causes a low power factor.
VVVF motors are more efficient than VVAC motors.
How do I nominate an efficiency measure for my lift?
Lift efficiency measures are not available in BASIX.
If you wish to install an efficiency measure, such as energy recovery back to grid, you will need to contact the lift manufacturer and the relevant energy utility when considering the option to feed energy back into the grid. To get the efficiency measure appropriately rewarded in BASIX, the proposed development will need to be assessed via the Alternative Assessment process.
Codes and Standards
The Australian Standard SAA Lift Code AS 1735.