Why Do Otis Elevators Use Steel Belts?

Otis elevators' replacement of traditional steel ropes with steel belts is not merely a material iteration, but a profound technological revolution. This innovation, pioneered with the Gen2 system, directly addresses three major pain points in modern architecture: safety, energy efficiency, and space constraints.

Advantages of Using Steel Belts in OTIS Elevators

1. Higher Safety
Each composite steel belt can bear a tensile load of 3,200–6,400 kg, with a minimum of 3 belts configured per elevator, achieving a safety factor ≥ 12—far exceeding that of traditional steel ropes.
The internal wire count (588 or 1,176 steel wires) vastly surpasses conventional ropes, ensuring a more robust and durable structure.

2. Longer Service Life
Polyurethane-coated steel belts last 2–3 times longer than traditional steel ropes.
Bruag steel belts utilize high-strength alloy steel and special braiding technology, delivering exceptional wear resistance and tensile strength.

3. Energy-Saving & Eco-Friendly
Approximately 20% lighter weight reduces the traction machine energy consumption.
Combined with the ReGen regenerative drive system, energy savings of up to 75% can be achieved.
Lubrication-free design eliminates oil contamination, making it more environmentally friendly.

4. Superior Ride Experience
Outstanding vibration and noise reduction, with in-car noise levels reaching ≤ 55 dBA.
Smooth and comfortable operation; low elongation ensures precise floor leveling.

5. Space-Saving
Deflector sheave diameter is only 100 mm (vs. 200 mm traditional); machine height is 200+ mm (vs. nearly 400 mm), saving approximately 300 mm of installation space.
Ideal for buildings with headroom under 3,000 mm, especially for home elevators.

6. Lower Elevator Maintenance Costs
Lubrication-free design reduces maintenance workload.
The intelligent Otis ONE® monitoring system tracks status in real time, enabling predictive maintenance.

Disadvantages of Using Steel Belts in OTIS Elevators

1. Limited High-Speed Applications
Currently used primarily in low- to medium-speed elevators (below ~1.75 m/s); high-speed applications (> 2 m/s) remain in the experimental stage.
Performance at high speeds requires further validation; technological maturity lags behind traditional steel ropes.

2. Environmental Sensitivity
Sensitive to temperature and humidity: high temperatures may cause permanent magnet synchronous motor demagnetization, and electronic components have limited heat resistance.
Air humidity fluctuations can affect belt performance, limiting its applicability in damp environments.

3. Higher Initial Cost
The initial purchase price is relatively expensive compared to traditional steel rope elevators.
Although long-term energy savings exist, the upfront investment threshold is higher.

4. Technical Complexity
A complex structure requires specialized technical support for maintenance.
Higher heat generation demands a more rigorous cooling design.

5. Market Maturity
As a relatively new technology, market adoption and application cases remain fewer than those of traditional steel rope elevators.
Some users remain cautious about its long-term reliability.

Summary & Recommendations

Otis steel-belt elevators demonstrate clear advantages in safety, energy efficiency, and space utilization, making them ideal for low- to medium-speed commercial buildings, high-end residences, and scenarios with limited space where quiet, eco-friendly operation is prioritized. The Gen2/Gen3 systems have been validated over many years and are technologically mature and reliable. However, selection requires careful trade-offs:

Use caution for high-speed elevators (> 2 m/s) or extreme temperature/humidity environments.
Projects with sufficient budget and a focus on long-term operational benefits offer greater cost-effectiveness.
Space savings are particularly prominent in home elevator applications.
For ultra-high-speed or heavy-duty requirements, traditional steel rope elevators remain the more prudent choice.

We offer all model steel belts and a warranty. Otis elevator belt AAA717X1, etc....Please feel free to contact us if you are interested.

Contact person: Candice
Email: candice@nonaelevator.com
Contact Phone: (86) 17719527681（Whatsapp/Wechat）