Is KONE MX10 the Best Traction Machine for Your Elevator?

Elevators play a crucial role in buildings, ensuring smooth and efficient vertical transportation. The traction machine is at the heart of an elevator system, directly impacting performance, energy efficiency, and maintenance costs. Choosing the right model is essential to avoid frequent malfunctions, high electricity bills, and excessive wear and tear.

The KONE MX10 traction machine is a gearless PMSM designed for low-to-mid-rise buildings such as residential complexes, office buildings, hotels, and hospitals. But how does it compare to other models? Is it truly a cost-effective and efficient choice?

This guide provides a detailed analysis of MX10’s features, applications, technical advantages, and comparisons with other traction machines, helping you determine whether it’s the right fit for your elevator project.

1. Key Features of the KONE MX10

When selecting a traction machine, key factors include energy consumption, reliability, lifespan, compatibility, and maintenance costs. How does the MX10 perform in these areas?

1.1 Gearless PMSM Technology for Higher Efficiency

The KONE MX10 eliminates traditional geared traction mechanisms, resulting in lower friction, reduced mechanical wear, and improved energy efficiency.

30% lower energy consumptioncompared to geared traction machines
Smooth, vibration-free operation, ensuring a comfortable ride
Lower maintenance requirements, as there are fewer moving parts

1.2 Suitable for Various Building Types

The compact and lightweight design of the KONE MX10 allows it to be used in various settings, including:

Residential buildings and apartment complexes
Hotels and office buildings requiring quiet operation
Hospitals and medical facilities needing smooth, precise movement
Modernization projects replacing outdated traction machines

View the full technical specifications of the KONE MX10 here.

2. Where Is the MX10 Most Suitable?

Different buildings have unique elevator performance requirements. The MX10 is specifically optimized for:

2.1 Low-to-Mid-Rise Buildings (6-12 Floors)

For buildings up to 12 floors, the MX10 provides an optimal balance of speed, efficiency, and cost-effectiveness. With a maximum speed of 1.75m/s, it ensures smooth, energy-efficient travel for residential and commercial buildings.

2.2 Elevator Modernization Projects

Many older buildings still use geared traction machines, which are noisy, inefficient, and expensive to maintain. The MX10 is an ideal replacement, as it:

Fits into existing hoistways with minimal modifications
Reduces energy costs and mechanical wear
Enhances ride comfort with smoother acceleration and deceleration

2.3 Noise-Sensitive Environments

The gearless PMSM technology in the MX10 significantly reduces noise and vibration, making it perfect for:

Hotels– Ensuring a quiet, comfortable stay for guests
Hospitals– Providing smooth transport for patients and medical equipment
Office buildings– Minimizing disruptions in workspaces

3. How Does the MX10 Improve Energy Efficiency and Reduce Costs?

Elevator energy consumption is a major operational cost in buildings. The KONE MX10 helps reduce electricity bills by:

Eliminating gear friction losseswith its direct-drive PMSM system
Supporting regenerative braking, feeding excess energy back into the building’s grid
Optimizing power usage, adjusting energy consumption based on load conditions

Compared to traditional geared traction machines, the MX10 can cut electricity costs by up to 30%, making it a smart long-term investment.

4. Installation Considerations for the KONE MX10

4.1 Machine Room vs. Machine Room-Less (MRL) Installations

One of MX10’s advantages is its flexibility in installation:

Machine Room Installations: Traditional setup for buildings with dedicated machine rooms.
Machine-Room-Less (MRL) Applications:MX10 compact design allows it to be installed in MRL configurations, saving valuable building space.

4.2 Compatibility with Elevator Control Systems

Before upgrading to MX10, ensure that your elevator control system supports gearless PMSM motors. Some older systems may require controller upgrades for full compatibility.

Speak to an expert about upgrading to the MX10.

5. How Does MX10 Compare to Other KONE Traction Machines?

5.1 Comparison with Other KONE Models

Model	Max Speed	Load Capacity	Best For	Energy Efficiency
MX06	1.0m/s	320-630kg	Small residential buildings	Moderate
MX10	1.75m/s	450-1000kg	Low-rise apartments, offices, and hotels	High
MX14	2.0m/s	800-1250kg	Mid-rise commercial buildings	Very High
MX18	2.5m/s	1000-1600kg	Mid-to-high-rise buildings	Very High

MX10 is best for low-to-mid-rise buildings, offering a balance of efficiency and affordability.
MX14, MX18, and MX20 are optimized for taller buildings with higher speed demands.
MX06 is a more basic solution for very small buildings.

View a full comparison of KONE traction machines.

5.2 Comparison with Other Brands

Brand	Model	Max Speed	Energy Efficiency	Maintenance Needs
KONE	MX10	1.75m/s	High	Low
OTIS	Gen2	1.75m/s	Moderate	Medium
Mitsubishi	PM-100	2.0m/s	High	High
Thyssenkrupp	Synergy	1.5m/s	Low	High

MX10 offers superior energy efficiency compared to most competitors.
It has lower maintenance costs than geared or hybrid traction systems.
Some Mitsubishi and Thyssenkrupp models provide slightly higher speeds but at a higher cost.

6. Should You Choose the KONE MX10 for Your Elevator?

The KONE MX10 traction machine is an efficient, reliable, and cost-effective solution for low- to mid-rise buildings. It offers significant energy savings, minimal maintenance, and smooth operation, making it a practical choice for new installations and modernization projects.

Who Should Choose the MX10?

Buildings up to 12 floors requiring efficient traction machines
Projects focused on reducing energy consumption and operational costs
Property owners looking to replace outdated geared traction machines
Noise-sensitive environments such as hotels, hospitals, and office buildings

Contact us today for expert consultation and competitive pricing.

Request a Quote for the KONE MX10.