Elevator

machines · engineering · buildings

Up and down. An elevator (also called a lift) is a machine that moves people or cargo between the floors of a building.

Cables and weights. Most elevators use electric motors that pull strong cables, balanced by a heavy counterweight that makes lifting easier.

The water way. Some elevators work like a giant jack, pumping hydraulic fluid to push a cylinder that raises the elevator car.

Not just people. Elevators can carry freight too, hauling heavy goods and equipment up tall buildings.