Escalator Analysis According to  ISO18738-2

fahrtreppe_shop.jpgWith the publication of the revised ISO 18738 in 2012, a new Part 2, which deals with the ride quality measurement of escalators and moving walkways was also issued. Vibration data of the load carriers and handrails are recorded in several measuring positions and evaluated together with sound pressure levels to represent the quantified human feel when using the escalator. The Henning Sensor Suite software in conjunction with the sensor QS3 is able to generate measurements and results in accordance with ISO 18738-2.
 
 
 
The various components of the escalator are measured in both directions of movement, unless it is an installation that is actually operated in one direction only. In this case it is sufficient to measure in one direction of movement only.
 
Measurement of the Load Carrying Units / Steps
 
platte_seite.JPGThe QS3 sensor should be attached in the middle of the load carrying unit (usually on a step) directly at the step outlet of the moving escalator. The positioning of the QS3 sensor should be carried out according to the illustration. The contact pressure between sensor and escalator should be at least 60 kPa (cf. ISO 18738:2003, Chapter 7.2.2). Ensure this by using the designated measuring block as the receptacle for the sensor.  
fahrtreppe_step_qs3_kl.jpgThe operator has to stand on the next step, directly behind the sensor. In case of a moving walk, a distance of at least 300 mm between operator and sensor is required.
With a horizontal moving walk, the measurement can be started immediately. With an escalator or and inclined moving walk, the measurement may only be started at the beginning of the inclination.
With horizontal escalators, the measurement is stopped immediately in front of the step inlet. In case of moving walks or escalators, a measurement is finished immediately in front of the end of the inclination.

 
 
 
 
 
 
Measurement of the Handrails
 
fahrtreppe_handrail_qs3.JPGTo measure the handrails, the sensor QS3 is attached to the same and held on by hand. Measurements are carried out in succession on the handrails and in both directions of movement if required.
The positioning of the QS3 sensor should be carried out according to the illustration.
 
Sound Measurement 
 
The sound level measurement describes the sound aspect of the drive quality as perceived by the passenger.
The sound level measured during this process is the sum of
  • the escalator’s sound emission
  • the background noise
  • the acoustic characteristics of the room in which the escalator is installed
  • and the acoustic reflection of the surfaces in the area surrounding the escalator
ISO 18738-2 therefore describes several methods to compensate the effects of background noise and the acoustic behavior of the installation’s location.
 
Documentation
 
The software Henning sensor suite creates a complete report according to ISO18738 Part. 2 from the measurements.
This can then be identified as detailed quality certificate of the escalator and traceable archived in due course.
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Extended Evaluations
 
freq.jpgWithin the software Henning Sensor Suite advanced analytic options such as the vibration analysis AddOn and frequency tests are available for in depth examination of issues with the escalator or moving walk.
 
 
 
09.08.2016