What is the purpose of a counterweight in a lift?
Found in most modern electric lifts, the counterweight is a key component that travels the reverse trajectory of the lift car every day. But what is it really for? Does it ensure safety for the lift user? How is it calibrated to suit the installation? To learn all the key information on a lift counterweight, visit the OCTÉ online shop!
Working principle of a lift counterweight
By definition, a counterweight is a heavy mass fixed on the opposite end of the part to be moved. Used mainly on cranes and tractors, it also has an application in electric lifts. In an electric lift, the car and counterweight are both located in the shaft, with the vertical space protected from any intrusion. In order to avoid a collision, accident or unintentional friction and to maintain a linear trajectory, the car and counterweight are assisted by guide rails.
The cabin transporting the passengers is pulled by metal cables, themselves driven by a pulley system connected to a motor. To make it easier for the motor to move the car, and to obtain a higher speed of motion whilst at the same time saving energy, a counterweight is fixed to the cables in the shaft (the lift cage). This means that when the lift car moves (up or down), the counterweight travels in the opposite direction.
This helps to reduce the motor's energy consumption for a similar result. The counterweight is an economical and ecological way to reduce electricity bills whilst making it easier to move the car.
What is a lift counterweight made of?
If we were to dissect a counterweight, what would we see? A metal frame connected to the cables of the lift system. Inside, we would find that the vast majority of its weight is comprised of: concrete or metal load packs that are sufficient in number to comply with regulations.
The weight of a lift counterweight is not chosen at random, but using a formula that considers the weight of the empty car plus the maximum permissible load.
+ (maximum permissible load / 2) Therefore, the weight of the counterweight = weight of the empty car
This simple calculation helps the OCTÉ teams to size and adapt the weight of the counterweight to suit your lift!
OCTÉ sells lift counterweight models that are tailored to your needs. They are available in single or double row versions, and they can be employed in most setups. Accordingly, our counterweights offer the perfect solution for electric lifts in private or office applications.
Have you ever heard of a safety gear counterweight? These particular models also feature a safety braking system, called a “safety gear”, that is designed to slow and stop the lift car if it goes into free fall. Discover how a safety gear works on our dedicated web page.
This means that a counterweight must feature a safety gear where the shaft is installed over spaces that people have access to, such as a car park underneath a building.
Our company is a European specialist in the manufacture and installation of lift systems. We work alongside you to study the options to complement your building, house or commonhold property with a lift fitted with a counterweight. Browse all of our lift counterweight models on our online shop www.octe.shop. To discuss your project and receive a personalised quote, get in touch!
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