The handrail is made up of four sections. At the center is a "slider," a layer of cotton or synthetic (artificial) fabric, which allows the handrail to move smoothly along its track. The next layer,Elevator Supplier known as the tension member, consists of either steel cable or flat steel tape. It provides the handrail with the necessary tensile strength (stretch) and flexibility. On top of the tension member is chemically treated rubber that helps prevent the layers from separating. Finally, the cover is a blend of synthetic plastic and rubber, designed to resist the wear and tear of daily use.

The three inner layers of fabric, steel, and rubber are shaped by skilled workers before being subjected to pressure from machines called presses, which fuse them together. The cover is made by feeding rubber through a computer-controlled extrusion machine, which forces the rubber through a mold to form a continuously shaped piece.

Aside from determining the escalator's style and colors (handrails and side panels), the architects and designers have to consider several factors.

Physical factors

Physical factors, such as the vertical and horizontal distances to be covered by the escalator, are very important because they will determine the pitch (angle of slope) and the actual height of the escalator. In addition, the building structure has to be able to support the heavy components (parts) of the escalator.

The escalator should be situated where the general public can easily find it and get on it with ease. It should not be in a tight spot or lead to confined spaces. Traffic patterns must also be anticipated. In some buildings, escalators are used simply for moving people from one floor to another. In other cases, escalators are built for specific purposes, such as to funnel people toward a main exit or exhibit.

The carrying capacity of the escalator is an important aspect of its design. An escalator is designed to carry a certain maximum number of people, depending on its design. For example, a single-width escalator traveling at about 1.5 feet (0.45 meter) per second can move approximately 170 people per five-minute period. On the other hand, wider models traveling at up to 2 feet (0.6 meter) per second can move more than two and one-half times that number, or about 450 people, in the same time period. In addition, the carrying capacity must be able to accommodate peak periods, during which the most passengers board the escalator. For example, escalators at train stations must be able to handle the increased flow of people discharged from a train without causing back-ups at the escalator entrance.

Safety is a major consideration in escalator design. The floor opening may be protected against fire by the addition of automatic sprinklers or fireproof shutters. The escalator may also be situated in an enclosed fire-protected hall. To prevent overheating of the motor and gears, proper ventilation should be provided.

If the escalator is the primary means of transportation between floors, a traditional staircase can be located near it. An Escalator Company near an escalator is also ideal for accommodating wheelchairs and people with disabilities.