Elevator Sills
Sills are a critical component contributing to the smooth operation of sliding door elevators.
The word “sill” comes from a German word meaning “threshold”. In an elevator, the sill is the part you step over when you enter the cab. It’s the part the door slides over as it opens and closes. It’s not very big, typically just a few inches wide and an inch or so thick, but it plays a vital role in the operation of the elevator providing a groove into which the door travels as it opens and closes.
Why are they so important?
An elevator can create quite a bit of air turbulence in the shaft as it travels up and down. This can cause the doors on each floor to shake and rattle. But the sill helps to prevent this making the whole experience safer and more comfortable.
Elevator sills haven’t changed much since Chicago Extruded Metals began making them in the first have of the last century. And now, beginning in the year 2022, we’re happy to be offering them once again.
What are they made from?
Regardless of whether they are used in passenger or freight elevators, sills will have to stand up to quite a beating. Whether being run over by forklifts or foot traffic, they can quickly get scuffed and scarred if they are not constructed from sturdy material. That’s why they are most often made from extruded metals. Using a shape that has been extruded is much more cost-effective than trying to machine the shape from raw stock.
When choosing an elevator sill material, it is important to consider both strength and aesthetics. Nickel silver can provide the perfect balance between these two qualities. It’s strong and durable, yet easy to work with and can be finished to an attractive shine. It is the most popular choice among elevator component manufacturers.
Nickel silver is an alloy that contains nickel, copper, and zinc. The proportions of these metals can vary depending on the application. In addition to being in high demand for elevator sills, nickel silver is used in a variety of applications, including jewelry, flatware, musical instruments, and coins. It has a silver-like appearance, but it is not actually made of silver. The addition of nickel gives the alloy a slightly yellowish color, and the copper helps to prevent tarnishing.
Architectural bronze is also a popular choice. It is known for its strength, durability, corrosion resistance, and structural patina. It is also non-magnetic, non-sparking and non-combustible.
