The Most Common Lift Faults

With every intricate machine there is the capability for a number of different things to go wrong. Take elevators for example – there are many ways for one to malfunction. Most equipment failures can be prevented with regular services and proper maintenance, but occasionally something goes wrong that requires an engineer.

Here are some of the most common elevator problems and solutions to resolve or avoid them:

  1. Worn Sheaves

When the sheaves wear down they place extra wear on the ropes, in turn creating more wear on the sheaves. This cycle of destruction can quickly wear both down completely.

Regrooving the sheaves, or replacing them will prevent premature hoist rope failure, so be sure to check groove profiles to verify the fit. Tools are available with magnetic standards and a straight edge to visually check the grooves on the sheave are aligned evenly.

  1. Power Failure

Elevators in commercial settings require a large amount of power from the utility systems. Any updates on the systems voltage can affect motor operations, potentially damaging the elevator system.

Using infrared thermography, engineers can measure any drastic temperature changes, identifying possible trouble spots before they can cause costly system failures. Common faults usually involve a high or low voltage or fuses that are running hot.

  1. Contamination

The wear of elevator parts causes particles to break off, releasing them into the oil. This can cause problems with the functioning of the lift. Improper lubrication and worn seals can also cause contamination.

Conducting an oil analysis is a simple method of checking the various properties that may indicate contamination or wear inside the motor. A high presence of bronze in the gear case oil usually indicates premature wear on the crown gear. A high concentration of aluminium in a hydraulic tank may indicate pump housing wear.

Ensure you organise regular lift maintenance: this is the best way of helping prevent some of these most common faults.