Otis Unveils Modern Tech for Aged Escalators

FARMINGTON, CT -- Otis Worldwide Corporation, a manufacturer of elevators and escalators, has launched a suite of escalator modernization solutions, giving building owners a safer, smarter and more efficient way to upgrade aging escalators.

Otis’ modernization solutions provide improved reliability, less disruption to building operations and tenants, and a clearer more manageable roadmap for long-term performance.

Global populations, infrastructure and equipment continue to age. Of the more than one million escalators installed globally, predominantly commercial escalators, nearly twenty percent are now in the modernization window, requiring updates to keep pace with evolving safety standards, usage demands and performance expectations.

"Across the globe, our customers are balancing aging infrastructure with the need to keep people moving safely and reliably every day," said Claire Miller, Executive Vice President and Chief Growth Officer for Otis. “That challenge is only intensifying as populations age and demand for buildings – and the systems that support them – continues to grow.”

The Otis Link MOD suite of comprehensive upgrade packages include the new Otis Link MOD Pro package, which delivers a complete modernization of critical commercial escalator components and aesthetics, while retaining the existing truss—the escalator's structural backbone.

Its modular, factory‑preassembled design streamlines modernization, significantly shortening project timelines. By minimizing on‑site work, the system reduces jobsite hazards and downtime in busy commercial environments and adapts easily to a wide range of building layouts.

"Our Otis Link MOD solutions are designed to help customers extend the life and value of their escalators while minimizing disruption to their daily operations, so passengers can continue to move with confidence,” said Miller. “By combining advanced technology and engineering with our deep modernization expertise, we're enabling building owners to extend the life of their escalators and deliver a mobility experience that meets modern safety and performance expectations."

The Otis Link MOD suite of solutions includes four packages – Link MOD Prime, Link MOD Plus, Link MOD Pro and full replacement with an Otis Link escalator. All Link MOD packages are powered by Otis' industry-leading technology and designed to allow customers to choose the scope and pace of their escalator modernization.

The Otis Link MOD Pro package offers a modular, pre-assembled design that minimizes disruption on site.

The self-adjusting handrail system automatically adjusts the handrail tension while the escalator is running and reduces handrail-related callbacks by over 90% compared to units without this technology.

An upgraded electronic controller minimizes shutdowns and keeps escalators available when customers need them.

Available in the U.S. and Canada, Otis Link MOD escalators feature a direct drive system that eliminates the traditional drive chain, offering greater flexibility for installation in existing buildings, improved reliability and reduced lubrication needs.

An intelligent lubrication system reduces oil consumption by adjusting the amount of oil automatically at each lubrication point.

A standby or intermittent use mode option reduces downtime, energy consumption and operating costs when the escalator is idle.

Headquartered in Connecticut, USA, Otis is 72,000 people strong, including 45,000 field professionals, all committed to manufacturing, installing and maintaining products to meet the diverse needs of our customers and passengers in more than 200 countries and territories.

To learn more, visit www.otis.com.