Machine Room vs MRL Elevators

Which one is better? Machine room elevator or machine-room-less elevator?Actually,there is no absolute answer.They have different advantages. For different situation,you have different choices.So choose your own plan.

NO1. Different feature.

1. Machine room elevator(MR)

There is an independent equipment room on the top floor (for hosting mainframes, control cabinets, etc.)

2. Machine-room-less elevator(MRL)

All equipment is directly installed on the top of the shaft / side wall / roof of the elevator car.

NO2. Advantages and Disadvantages

1.Space and Architecture

Machine room elevator(MR)

• BAD：There is a separate space must be provided at the roof, so it will affectthe roof’s appearance.
• GOOD：The technology is mature, with relatively low requirements for shaft structure.

Machine-room-less elevator(MRL)

• GOOD: Save space and enhance building’s appearance.
• BAD: Some schemes impose higher requirements on top floor height and shaft load-bearing capacity.

2.Operational performance

Machine room elevator(MR)

• Load capacity: Maximum up to 3000kg;
• Speed: Up to 4.0 m/s, suitable for super high-rise buildings;
• Noise: Isolated machine room,quiet elevator cabin.

Machine-room-less elevator(MRL)

• Load capacity: ≤1150kg; high-load operation requires robust reinforcement.
• Speed: ≤1.75m/s (high-speed technology limitations).
• Noise: The equipment generates slightly higher noise levels within the shaft.

3.Maintenance and Repair

Machine room elevator(MR)

• spacious space
• safe operation
• convenient maintenance
• low cost

Machine-room-less elevator(MRL)

• narrow space
• requirement for shaft access operations
• high difficulty, significant risks
• more expensive maintenance

NO3: Which one should you choose?

Machine room elevator(MR)

IF YOU:

• Buildings ≥15 stories with high-speed/high-load requirements

(example: hospitals, shopping malls, office buildings, factory)

• Pursue extreme stability, low noise, and high comfort
• Emphasize cost-effective long-term maintenance
• High pedestrian traffic and highusage

Machine-room-less elevator(MRL)

IF YOU:

• Limited space, retrofitting of old buildings, villas, and high-rise buildings with height restrictions
• Prioritizing architectural appearance and roof functionality
• Aim for higher energy efficiency and lower long-term electricity costs
• Mid-to-low-rise buildings (≤12 stories), moderate load capacity, and average pedestrian traffic volume

NO4. Conclusion

Machine room elevator(MR) =

• Stable and reliable, easy to maintain, and high-performance →

Suitable for public spaces/high-rise buildings/high-flow applications

Machine-room-less elevator(MRL) =

• Space-saving, aesthetically pleasing, and energy-efficient →

Suitable for residential use / urban renewal / villas / limited space

So you can choose the elevator more you fit!