Escalator & Moving Walk Systems Flashcards

What is the maximum allowable angle of inclination for a standard passenger escalator per ASME A17.1?

Answer: 35 degrees

ASME A17.1 permits escalator inclination angles of 30 degrees or less, with 35 degrees allowed under specific conditions for short-rise units.

On a moving walk, the pallet or belt speed must not exceed which value when the angle of inclination exceeds 3 degrees?

Answer: 125 ft/min

ASME A17.1 limits inclined moving walk speed to 125 ft/min when the angle exceeds 3 degrees to ensure passenger safety.

Which component on an escalator transmits drive force from the main drive shaft to the step chain?

Answer: Drive sprocket

The drive sprocket is keyed to the main drive shaft and meshes with the step chain to propel the steps.

What is the purpose of the escalator's broken step-chain device?

Answer: Stops the escalator if the step chain breaks or elongates excessively

A broken step-chain device monitors chain tension and triggers an emergency stop if the chain breaks or stretches beyond safe limits.

The handrail speed on an escalator must be maintained within what tolerance of step speed?

Answer: ±5%

ASME A17.1 requires handrail speed to be within ±2% of step speed to prevent passenger imbalance, though some codes cite 0–2% above step speed.

Which ASME A17.1 safety device prevents an escalator from operating in reverse when designed for one direction only?

Answer: Reversal stop device

A reversal stop device detects unintended reverse motion and initiates an emergency stop to prevent accidents.

What minimum illumination level is required at the escalator landing area per ASME A17.1?

Answer: 10 foot-candles

ASME A17.1 requires a minimum of 10 foot-candles at the escalator landing and step tread areas to ensure visibility.