Fujitec Modernizes Its Longest Escalator in Japan

The escalator is equivalent to the height of a six-story building.

submitted by Fujitec 

Fujitec Co., Ltd. has modernized the longest Fujitec escalator in Japan at Tokyo Big Sight (Koto-ku, Tokyo), the largest international exhibition hall in Japan. This escalator is 45 m long and 22 m high, equivalent to the height of a six-story building.

Modernization Overview

Fujitec is modernizing the escalators installed at Tokyo Big Site to maintain safety and enhance functionality. Construction is being completed in phases alongside the major repair work of the facility, with eight out of the 12 operating units finished as of August 2024. All construction is planned to be completed by May 2025.

Longest Fujitec Escalator in Japan

Two of the eight escalators modernized are the longest Fujitec escalators in Japan, measuring 22 m high and 45 m long. This length is equivalent to five escalators in a typical building (converted based on assumption that one floor of a typical office building is approximately 4 m high), allowing users to travel from the first floor to the sixth floor on one escalator.

Future Outlook

High-rise escalators operating in subway stations and other locations, primarily in urban areas, are due for modernization. Fujitec anticipates difficult projects with limited delivery routes and construction methods due to limited entrances and exits, as well as the deep underground nature of such installations. The company is committed to tailoring construction work to customer’s installation sites by leveraging its expertise gained from experience with numerous modernization projects, including Tokyo Big Sight.

Fujitec continues to support elevator and escalator life cycles through an integrated system as a specialized manufacturer, providing safe and secure building facilities and contributing to sustainable urban development.

Construction Overview

Key Points of the Modernization

Adopted Control Renewal

Fujitec adopted Control Renewal, an eco-friendly modernization construction method that continues to use existing functional parts. The use of existing parts reduces work areas, enabling shorter construction periods compared to full modernization. Fujitec kept the trusses (frame) and balustrades for this project and modernized the main equipment used in the drive and control systems.

Developed Unique Construction Equipment and Gantry Jig

Fujitec developed a unique in-house gantry jig for use in the modernization of the 22-m-high escalator at this work site. Gantry jigs are construction components that lift heavy parts in escalator modernization work. Fujitec will use this jig to install, remove and move parts. Conventional gantry jigs could not be used due to the heavier weight of the main components (machine and main drive) of the 22-m-high escalators, compared to ordinary escalators. In response, Fujitec developed a gantry jig specifically for this site to install the escalators.

Added Dress Guard 

Fujitec installed a dress guard on the modernized escalators. Brushes on either side of the steps prevent shoes and clothes from getting caught in the escalators, ensuring user safety.