Elevators Race to Top as Technology Matches Skyscraper Growth

Elevators Race to Top as Technology Matches Skyscraper Growth
LONDON—The world’s tallest buildings compete for the distinction of being the tallest, as well as on a lesser known measure that pushes the limits of modern engineering: elevator speed. Ultra-fast elevators installed in some supertall buildings are poised to reach speeds of 20 m/s (45 mph). They also feature technologies that use heat resistant brakes, mitigate excess vibration and adjust for air pressure to prevent ear blockages. Currently, the fastest are Toshiba-manufactured elevators in the Taipei 101 office tower in Taiwan, with speeds of 16.8 m/s (38 mph). However, Mitsubishi is poised to steal the crown in 2015, with elevators in China’s 121-story Shanghai Tower that travel at 18 m/s (40 mph). In 2016, Hitachi is aiming to set a record with elevators in the Guangzhou CTF Finance Centre that will ascend at a rate of 20 m/s (45 mph). The elevators could travel from the first floor to the 95th floor in 43 seconds.