Introduction
Elevators are an essential part of modern buildings, offering convenience and accessibility. However, behind every smooth and secure ride lies a robust safety system. Whether you're a facility manager, property owner, or simply a curious user, it's worth understanding the key safety mechanisms that ensure elevator operation is safe and reliable. In this blog, we’ll introduce four critical elevator safety devices: the overspeed governor, safety gear, buffer, and door lock system.
1. Overspeed Governor
The overspeed governor is one of the most vital components of an elevator’s safety control system. Its primary role is to monitor the elevator's speed continuously. If the elevator moves faster than 115% of its rated speed—regardless of the cause—the overspeed governor sends a signal to initiate emergency safety measures.
Once activated, the governor cuts off the power supply and engages the traction machine’s brake system. If the elevator still fails to stop, the governor triggers the safety gear to forcibly bring the car to a halt. In this safety sequence, the overspeed governor acts as the signal initiator, while the safety gear functions as the executor. Together, they provide a critical defense against uncontrolled elevator movements.
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2. Safety Gear
Safety gear is a mechanical braking device designed to stop the elevator car in case of overspeed or suspension rope failure. Operated by the overspeed governor, the safety gear clamps onto the elevator guide rails and brings the car to an emergency stop.
There are two main types of safety gear:
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Instantaneous safety gear, used for elevators with a rated speed of ≤0.63 m/s.
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Progressive safety gear, suitable for elevators operating at speeds greater than 0.63 m/s.
The working principle involves a system of levers and tension wheels that maintains the friction between the governor rope and the governor pulley. When the elevator exceeds its safe speed, the governor rope is clamped, which in turn activates the safety gear levers and stops the car.
Though single-direction safety gear is more common, dual-direction safety gear (capable of acting in both directions) offers more robust protection, though it is not yet widely adopted due to its manufacturing complexity.
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3. Buffer
Buffers act as the final safety line in an elevator’s emergency system. Positioned at the bottom of the elevator shaft, they are designed to absorb the impact if the elevator descends too quickly and reaches the shaft pit, commonly known as “bottoming out.”
There are three main types of elevator buffers:
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Hydraulic buffers – Widely used for various speeds and load capacities.
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Spring buffers – Suitable for low-speed elevators.
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Polyurethane buffers – Lightweight and used in specific applications.
These devices protect both the elevator system and its passengers by cushioning the impact and reducing the risk of injury or damage.
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4. Door Lock System
The door lock mechanism ensures that the elevator doors remain securely closed during operation. It consists of an auto-closing lock hook, usually spring-loaded, that keeps the landing doors in the closed position when not in use.
Only when the door is properly locked will the elevator’s electrical circuit be completed, allowing the car to move. This prevents accidents caused by doors opening while the car is in motion or not aligned with a landing.
The door lock system is simple in design but crucial for maintaining safety during every elevator trip.
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Conclusion
Each of these devices—the overspeed governor, safety gear, buffer, and door lock system—plays a specific role in maintaining elevator safety. Together, they form a comprehensive safety network that protects passengers in emergency situations and ensures reliable operation. Understanding how these components work gives us greater confidence in using elevators and helps professionals maintain higher safety standards in building management.
