Cent Escales

Escalators, New Construction

Location: Tarragona, Spain

Date of Completion: March 2010

Submitted by: Begoña Flores

Project Description

Two main problems when considering the provision of adequate access to the city were its natural hills and Roman ruins. The Cent Escales steps were the only means of connection between the lower and central parts of the city. These were replaced with three sets of two escalators each that allow passengers to cross the 29-meter slope in 90 seconds. The escalators are reversible, can work in both directions using a remote control, operate 24 hours a day and are equipped with an energy-saving, variable-frequency drive device in which they are only activated when the presence of a passenger has been detected. They are also equipped with a constant video surveillance system to detect possible faults or incidents and prevent vandalism.

Escalator Specifications

• Quantity: 6
• Model (Sections 1 & 2): Velino XTRA 5EK 30º
• Model (Section 3): Velino XTRA 5EK 35º
• Height to be covered (Section 1): 7,010 mm
• Height to be covered (Section 2): 6,630 mm
• Height to be covered (Section 3): 4,320 mm
• Slopes (Sections 1 & 2): 30º
• Slopes (Section 3): 35º
• Step width: 1,000 mm
• Speed: 0.5 mps
• Capacity: 6,000 passengers per hour
• Distance between supports (Section 1): 17,700 mm
• Distance between supports (Section 2): 17,040 mm
• Distance between supports (Section 3): 10,870 mm c

Credits 

Promoter: Tarragona Council

Architect: Balcells Architectes S.L.

Builder: Vicsan Torredembarra S.A.

Designer & Manufacturer: ThyssenKrupp Norte S.A.

Installation & Maintenance: ThyssenKrupp Elevadores, S.L.