TAMAYO, CHRISTIAN PAUL S.
201810171
BSCE 2-3 EENG 22
Moving Walks and Ramps
Moving walks and ramps are different from moving stairways in terms of application, function,
construction, and capacity. Escalators’ primary function was the movement of large numbers of
people vertically, when such the vertical distance does not exceed approximately five stories.
When vertical transportation of wheeled vehicles and large parcels is required, it is not
recommended to use electric stairways, in this case, moving ramps may best be utilized.
Unlike the elevator and escalator, the moving walk or ramp serves a dual function, that is,
horizontal transportation only, or a combined function of horizontal and vertical transportation.
A moving walk as one with an incline not exceeding 5 degrees. Moving walks are slow moving,
approximately 1.5 mph, or high speed, approximately 9-12 mph. Where the principal function is
horizontal motion and inclined motion incidental to the horizontal. Moving walkways can be
used by standing or walking on them. They are often installed in pairs, one for each direction. A
moving ramp is a device with an incline limited by code to 12-15 degrees, where vertical motion
is as important as more important than the horizontal [Link] come in varying widths
and are capable of going very long distances. The sides of moving walks and ramps usually have
balustrades covered with a moving handrail going at the same speed as the walk or ramp. The
steel structural system supports the moving walk or ramp that is electrically driven. Moving
walks and ramps are built in two styles;
Pallet type-a continuous set of flat metal plates joined together; may or may not have rubber
added for better traction.
Moving belt-built with mesh metal belts or rubber walking surface over metal rollers.
It should be understood that the walk and ramp are physically the same device, differently
applied.
Application of Moving Walks
The principal uses of moving walks or moving sidewalks, as they are sometimes called, are to:
1. Eliminate and/or accelerate burdensome walking.
2. Eliminate congestion.
3. Force movement.
4. Easily transport large, bulky objects.
Application of Moving Ramps
The moving ramp that combines horizontal and vertical movement is principally applicable as
follows:
1. To move persons and wheeled vehicles vertically.
2. To move persons who lack the agility required to use an escalator
3. To vertically move large, bulky objects.
Size, Capacity, and Speed
The speed, physical dimensions, and therefore passenger capacity of walks and ramps are not
standardized as is the case with escalators. Manufacturers utilize many different tread width,
combined with various speeds and ramp angles of incline. The combinations are designed to suit
situation. Most installations, however, are 26. in. (660 mm) one passenger or 40 in. (1000 mm)
two passenger, these figures being derived from stair pallet dimensions. The code allows wider
units on horizontal runs.
Furthermore, since the maximum ramps speed varies with the angle of slope, and with the design
of entering point, passenger capacity ratings vary with each design. Higher speeds are allowed by
code for the level entrance than with sloping entrance, for the obvious reason that the level
entrance is easier to board.
Since the capacity varies with the width, speed, and type of entrance, exact capacity figures must
be obtained for each specific design. Maximum practical lengths at present approximately 1000
ft, with longer units in design.
Components
Moving walks are manufactured in two separate and entirely distinct design. The first, which is
derivative of the escalator, uses a flattened pallet in place of a step. In all other respects-the drive
mechanism, safeties, brake, handrails, and so on-the unit is similar to an escalator. The second
design is based on conveyor belt and utilizes a continuous belt, constructed of rubber-covered
steel or fabric, supported on idler sheaves or slider bed, and driven by a typical roller-drive
mechanism at the end of the belt. As with escalators, a wide choice of materials and colors is
available for side panels, drum, and balustrades.
Safety Devices
Normal safety considerations on all walk and ramp installations include:
1. Thin groove belting, to provide sure footing, plus comb action at the end to avoid jamming.
2. Handrails synchronized with thread motion, extending beyond the treadway to ease entry and
exit on to a normally level area.
3. Emergency stop devices, both hand operated and automatic as with escalators. The latter are
activated by disturbances on the tread or in the drive machinery, causing the walk to shut down.
Also as with escalators, handrails disappear at inaccessible points at newels, and special lighting
is generally provided at combplates.
Conclusion
Since moving walks and ramps, unlike moving stairs, are nonstandard and are specifically
tailored to each application, no general data can be given on power or space requirements and
structural design. Each job must be referred to the manufacturers and the details developed.
