Understanding escalator construction before selection and installation
Are you exploring escalators for selection and installation in your project? Understanding escalator construction makes it easier to assess the equipment, identify key components and choose the right solution. What does an escalator consist of? What are its components called in English and Vietnamese? Join Viet Chao to explore the detailed construction of an escalator through the visual illustrations below.
Escalator construction diagram
An escalator construction diagram helps readers visualise the location and function of each component in an escalator system. From the truss, steps and handrails to the drive system and safety devices, each element plays a distinct role in ensuring stable and safe operation.
Explanation of escalator components
Balustrade
The balustrade includes:
- Handrail: typically made from high-quality synthetic PU rubber in a range of colours
- Interior panel: may be made from transparent glass or fine brushed stainless steel
- Deck board: made from fine brushed stainless steel
- Skirt guard: made from stainless steel
Load-bearing truss
This includes:
- Upper/lower machine room: housing the control cabinet, drive assembly, drive chain and upper sprocket
- Other components: main track, step track, handrail drive mechanism, handrail drive chain and lower sprocket
Steps
- Step tread: made from aluminium alloy
- Riser
- Step demarcation line
- Driving roller
- Step chain
Other components
- Operating panel: located on the interior panel
- Brush
Black brush - Comb: made from synthetic material or aluminium alloy
- Floor plate: made from aluminium alloy with anti-slip grooves
Aluminium alloy floor plate - Handrail inlet: made from aluminium alloy or high-grade plastic, in black, grey, silver and other colours
Handrail inlet - Direction indicator: an arrow showing the escalator’s upward or downward direction
- Lighting system: for handrails, step edges and comb plates
Escalator lighting system - Floor numbering and inner/outer handrail drive framework
Floor numbering and inner/outer handrail drive framework - Sensors and safety devices: Shanghai Mitsubishi escalators are equipped with sensors that can identify passengers travelling with trolleys, children playing near the escalator and passengers who intend to use it rather than simply pass by, helping avoid unnecessary starts. Ambient temperature and light sensors adjust the lighting system to save energy and improve comfort. Protective devices stop the escalator if there are abnormalities in step movement, speed, foreign objects caught in the escalator, or faults involving chains, brakes and other systems.
With more than 22 years of experience installing elevators and escalators, Viet Chao completed the Shanghai Mitsubishi escalator project at Ao Tien International Passenger Port.
We hope this article has provided useful visual information about escalator construction. With more than 22 years in the industry, Viet Chao is proud to be an authorised distributor of premium imported elevators and escalators from leading global brands, including Shanghai Mitsubishi and European manufacturers such as MP Lifts. We provide fully imported products with refined finishes to meet every aesthetic requirement, from modern styles to luxurious designs. At Viet Chao, every product combines internationally proven safety technology with dedicated, professional after-sales service.
Contact Viet Chao today via hotline 0898 552 888 for advice on Shanghai Mitsubishi escalator solutions and competitive quotations.
Related articles:
- English elevator terminology | A comprehensive guide
- Modern scaffold-free elevator installation techniques in 2026
Escalator construction Q&A
What are the main components of an escalator?
Fundamentally, an escalator comprises a load-bearing steel truss inclined between two floors, a step system connected to two chains running on tracks, a moving handrail, balustrades typically made of glass or metal, a drive motor and gearbox, and comb plates at both ends. The steel truss acts as the backbone, carrying the weight of the steps, passengers and other components.
How are escalator steps attached and moved?
Each step is secured to two chains on either side. When the motor drives the chains, all steps travel continuously in a closed loop. In the middle section, the steps incline to form the walking surface; at both ends they automatically level out to create landing plates, then run beneath the steel truss before returning. This is why only part of the step system is visible while an escalator operates.
What is the role of the comb plate, and why does the handrail travel at the same speed as the steps?
The comb plate has teeth that engage with grooves on the step surface, preventing shoes, bags or clothing from being caught between moving parts and the fixed floor. The handrail is driven by the same motor through its own wheel system, ensuring that its speed matches the steps so passengers can hold on securely and travel more safely.
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