Elevators and Lifts
In-Ground Car Type Summary
This is the traditional elevator application that has been used for many years. The jack is located directly under the platform in the ground and is protected from the ground using a PVC liner.
Advantages
Material cost for this package is less expensive than all other car types. The package is the easiest to install and is available in both low and high capacity applications. Heavy freight cars are typically always in-ground. The pit depth and overhead dimensions are typically always standard, not requiring any extended dimensions - even though the travel can be upwards to several landings.
Disadvantages
Jack is located underground and oil contamination is remotely possible. The PVC liner provides protection between the cylinder and the actual soil. Geographic areas which experience seismic activity will present the greatest risk of oil contamination. The jack (single stage) must go down into the ground the same distance as the travel. Drilling a jack hole can be expensive depending upon ground conditions.
