How must the brake be applied on a special purpose elevator?

The application of brakes on special purpose elevators is primarily mechanical in nature. These elevators often serve specific functions or environments where reliability and simplicity are key factors. Mechanical brakes utilize physical components, such as levers, springs, and friction materials, to create the stopping force needed to secure the elevator car in place or to slow it down during operation.

Mechanical brakes are beneficial because they provide consistent performance and do not rely on external power sources or hydraulic fluids, which can be prone to failure or leakage. Their straightforward design allows for easier maintenance and troubleshooting, especially in specialized environments where other systems might not be ideal.

Other types of brake applications, such as electronic or hydraulic, may introduce complexities that are not required or practical in special purpose elevators, which need to prioritize reliability. Pneumatic systems, while effective in some applications, are not commonly used in the braking systems of elevators due to the need for air pressure, which can be less dependable than mechanical systems.