Project Details
Introduction
At Hin Chong, we specialise in comprehensive lift modernisation solutions that extend equipment lifespan and eliminate costly obsolescence issues. This case study highlights our successful modernisation of two aging lift systems—a 27-year-old passenger lift and a 27-year-old cargo lift—for an existing client who recognised the urgent need to address increasing breakdown rates and parts availability challenges.
The client's long-term commitment to their property made lift modernisation a strategic investment, transforming unreliable aging systems into modern, efficient lifts that will serve their facility for decades to come.
The Challenge
Problem
The building operated two lift systems that had faithfully served for over 27 years but were now showing clear signs of age-related deterioration. Both the passenger lift and cargo lift were experiencing increased breakdown frequency as critical components reached or exceeded their end-of-useful lifespan.
The parts obsolescence issue had become particularly problematic. Many original components were no longer manufactured, making repairs increasingly difficult and expensive. When breakdowns occurred, sourcing replacement parts often took weeks, extending downtime and disrupting building operations. The cost to repair and replace obsolete components was rising exponentially as the systems aged, with each breakdown becoming more serious and harder to resolve.
As the client intended to remain in their current location for the foreseeable future, they recognised that continuing to patch aging systems with increasingly expensive obsolete parts was not sustainable. The decision was clear: undertake a comprehensive lift modernisation to prolong useful lifespan, improve reliability, and eliminate the obsolescence challenge.
Solution
Given the different criticality of each lift system, we proposed a tailored modernisation approach. The passenger lift, being more critical for daily building use, would receive a full lift modernisation covering both control and driving systems. The cargo lift would undergo partial modernisation focusing on the control system only, providing significant reliability improvements while optimizing project costs.
Our solution delivered multiple key benefits:
- Extended Lifespan: Modern components ensuring 15-20 years additional service life for both lifts
- Eliminated Obsolescence: Readily available spare parts for all new components
- Enhanced Reliability: Greatly reduced breakdown frequency through modern, reliable systems
- Cost Savings: Eliminated expensive obsolete parts replacement and reduced ongoing maintenance costs
- Critical Safety Enhancements: Latest BCA-compliant safety systems including advanced sensors and emergency features
- Improved Performance: Overall improvement in lift reliability, comfort, and ride quality
The implementation requirements were straightforward. We prioritised the passenger lift modernisation, estimated at 4 weeks duration, followed by the cargo lift modernisation requiring approximately 3 weeks. This phased approach ensured the client maintained adequate lift access throughout the 7-week project timeline.
Key Results and Outcomes
The project was completed successfully within the 7-week timeline, with the passenger lift modernisation taking 4 weeks and the cargo lift modernisation requiring 3 weeks as projected. Both systems were delivered with zero safety incidents during the modernisation process.
Post-modernisation performance has exceeded expectations. The passenger lift, now equipped with a complete modern control and driving system, operates smoothly with enhanced ride comfort and responsiveness. The cargo lift, with its modernised control system, provides reliable performance suitable for its operational requirements.
The obsolescence issues that previously plagued both systems have been completely eliminated. All new components use current technology with readily available spare parts, ensuring future repairs can be completed quickly without extended lead times. This parts availability provides significant cost predictability and reduces the risk of prolonged downtime.
The client's maintenance costs have decreased substantially, as modern components require less frequent intervention and repairs are straightforward when needed. Energy efficiency improvements, particularly in the passenger lift's new motor system, are delivering measurable reductions in operational costs.
Both lifts are covered by our comprehensive 5-year extended warranty, providing the client with long-term peace of mind and budget certainty. Our ongoing monthly maintenance ensures optimal performance and proactive identification of any issues before they affect service.
Conclusion
This successful dual-lift modernisation project demonstrates Hin Chong's ability to deliver tailored solutions that address each client's specific needs and priorities. By implementing full modernisation for the critical passenger lift while optimizing costs through partial modernisation of the cargo lift, we delivered maximum value while ensuring both systems will provide reliable service for decades to come.
The elimination of parts obsolescence and the dramatic reduction in maintenance costs validate the client's strategic decision to invest in modernisation rather than continuing expensive repairs of aging systems. We're proud to continue our partnership with this valued existing client through ongoing maintenance of their modernised lift systems.
For building owners and facility managers facing similar challenges with aging lift systems, rising repair costs, and obsolescence issues, Hin Chong offers comprehensive modernisation solutions tailored to your specific requirements and backed by proven technical expertise and unwavering commitment to quality.
