GSA Courthouse Management Group
Mechanical Lift Analysis
Verify that all gate interlocks operate correctly and are wired or
switched to avoid the need for continuous power application.
OPERATION
The most significant problem with the operation of the lift system, as determined by the
surveys and site visits, was a lack of confidence in the dependability of the
interconnected locking system between the enclosure gates. (It could be a misconstrued
opinion that the problem was caused by misalignment of the locking components on the
gate and frame. The actual problem may be overheating of the armature because of
continuous power being applied to the system.)
Recommendation:
GSA/AOUSC should confirm that the problem is as described
and if so, do the following:
For existing conditions, either connect the "common" wire on the
electronic strike through to the key switch, which activates the lift prior to
use, or add an additional switch to sense the position of the gate and utilize
this switch to energize/de-energize the circuit strike, based on whether the
gate is open or closed; and,
For new designs, GSA/AOUSC must make sure that this refinement to the
system is included in the wiring / switching requirements as part of the
performance criteria, and GSA Project Managers need to review project
specifications for compliance.
MAINTENANCE
The majority of operational parts for each of the two recommended system design
concepts could be remotely located from the immediate courtroom environment to allow
unlimited access for repairs. In most of the installations investigated, however, this was
not the case. (Note the recommendations outlined under SYSTEM SELECTION in this
section.)
In many of the installations investigated, service and parts for the lift equipment were
provided only by the manufacturer located an extensive distance from the site, causing
delays in completing repairs.
Recommendations:
The suggested GSA/AOUSC performance criteria are as follows:
Section 4-5
HDR Architecture, Inc.
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