Cable Winding Drum – How Does It Work?

A popular drive for residential elevators is the Winding Drum. An electric motor and gearbox are used to wind cables and lift and lower the elevator car. This is becoming increasingly popular as the motor control has improved. Today’s motor drives are capable of controlled acceleration and deceleration, providing very smooth starts and stops.

The motor and gearbox is often located at the top of the rail system. The drums are attached to an axle driven by the gearbox. The cables are attached to the cab. As the drums wind the cables, the cab moves upward. As the drums spool out the cable, the cab moves downward

The winding drum systems do not require a machine room as the motor/gearbox is located inside the hoistway This space savings is a benefit in home design. The winding drum units also run quieter than other home elevator drives.