Installing an escalator is a complex engineering project that requires careful planning, precision, and expertise. From initial site assessment to final commissioning, the process typically takes several weeks to complete.

Site Preparation

Before installation begins, structural engineers must verify that the building can support the escalator’s weight and operational loads. The installation area requires precise measurements and preparation, including creating proper openings in floors and ensuring adequate support structures are in place.

Equipment and Components

A typical escalator arrives in several major sections: the truss (the main support structure), steps, handrails, drive system, and control panels. Special lifting equipment and cranes are often needed to move these heavy components into position, particularly in existing buildings where space may be limited.

Installation Process | The main steps include:

1. Positioning the truss at the correct angle (typically 30-35 degrees)
2. Installing the drive system and motor room components
3. Mounting step chains and individual steps
4. Setting up the handrail system
5. Installing electrical systems and safety devices
6. Adding balustrades and deck boards

Safety Considerations

Modern escalators must meet strict safety standards and include multiple safety features such as emergency stop buttons, step demarcation lighting, and combplate switches. Proper installation of these safety systems is crucial for public safety and legal compliance.

Testing and Commissioning
Before an escalator can be opened for public use, it undergoes rigorous testing including:

• Load testing
• Speed and brake testing
• Safety device verification
• Emergency stop system checks
• Handrail synchronization testing

Maintenance Planning

During installation, contractors must ensure easy access to key maintenance points and provide proper documentation for future maintenance teams. Regular maintenance is essential for keeping escalators running safely and efficiently.

Cost Considerations

Installation costs vary significantly based on factors like:

• Height and length of the escalator
• Building modifications required
• Local labor rates
• Equipment specifications
• Safety requirements
• Access conditions

A typical commercial escalator installation can range from several hundred thousand to over a million dollars, making it a significant investment for any building project.

Professional Expertise

Only certified escalator technicians should perform installations. These specialists undergo extensive training and must stay current with evolving safety standards and installation techniques. Their expertise ensures both safety and reliability of the finished installation.

Escalator Installation Project Timeline

Additional Notes:

• Duration: 15 weeks baseline
• Recommended buffer: 2-3 weeks
• All timeframes assume normal working conditions
• Critical path activities highlighted in main installation phase
• Each phase requires sign-off before proceeding
• Timeline may vary based on:
  • Building conditions
  • Equipment availability
  • Permit processing time
  • Site access constraints
  • Weather conditions
  • Local regulations

Documentation

• 2013, Network Rail (UK), Planning and designing for safer
  escalator use at stations, Link, Source 
• 2019,APTA RT-EE-RP-001-02, Rev. 3, Heavy-Duty Escalator Design Guidelines,  Link, Source
• 2003, Spiral Escalator, Mitsubishi Electric, Link, Source 

Standards

Images

• Balaustrade

Arrangements

• Single unit arrangement
• Continuous arrangement (one-way traffic)
• Interrupted arrangement (one-way traffic)
• Parallel interrupted arrangement (two-way traffic)
• Crisscross continuous arrangement (two-way traffic)
• Scissor Arrangement

Escalator Components / Parts

• comprehensive table of escalator components:
  

  Component	Major Providers	Approx. Weight	Typical Dimensions	Lead Time
  Steps	Otis, ThyssenKrupp, Schindler	15-20 kg per step	1000mm x 400mm x 200mm	12-16 weeks
  Drive Unit/Motor	SEW-Eurodrive, ABB, Siemens	500-800 kg	1.5m x 1m x 1m	16-20 weeks
  Handrail System	EHC Global, Semperit, Continental	40-60 kg per side	Length varies by installation	10-14 weeks
  Main Drive Chain	Renold, Tsubaki, Diamond Chain	200-300 kg	Length based on rise	12-16 weeks
  Step Chain	Renold, KöBo, ThyssenKrupp	150-250 kg	Length based on rise	12-16 weeks
  Truss Structure	Local fabricators, OEM suppliers	2000-4000 kg	Based on rise and angle	14-18 weeks
  Control System	Schneider, Siemens, Mitsubishi	80-120 kg	2m x 0.8m x 0.4m	14-18 weeks
  Balustrades	Saint Gobain, PPG, Local suppliers	100-150 kg per side	Height: 900-1000mm	12-16 weeks
  Track System	OEM suppliers	300-500 kg	Based on rise	14-18 weeks
  Landing Plates	Local fabricators, OEM suppliers	50-80 kg per end	1.5m x 1m	8-12 weeks
  Safety Devices	Schmersal, Omron, SICK	30-50 kg total	Various sizes	10-12 weeks
  Comb Plates	OEM suppliers	15-25 kg per end	1m x 0.4m	8-10 weeks

  Note: Weights, dimensions, and lead times are approximate and can vary significantly based on:

  • Specific escalator design and requirements
  • Installation height/rise
  • Manufacturer
  • Geographic location
  • Current market conditions
  • Supply chain status
  • Custom requirements

  The heaviest components are typically the truss structure and drive unit, while the most time-critical components for procurement are usually the drive unit and control systems. Lead times provided are general estimates and may vary significantly, especially during supply chain disruptions.

Parts, Documentation

• Schindler escalator parts, Link, Source

Videos

Escalator Installation by ThyssenKrupp ENG

KCI Airport New Terminal Escalator Install July 2021

Escalator 1 Installation (ground to 2nd floor)

Time Lapse of Escalator Installation at Commercial–Broadway Station

Typical size of escalators and capacity