Lift: what is the purpose of an over-speed governor?
When you take the lift, several components ensure your safety in the event of a technical failure. Chief among them is the over-speed governor. Its role is to trigger the safety gear system in the event of over-speed, i.e. if the car should exceed its rated speed. Learn how it works in detail, as well as the different models sold online by OCTÉ!
Lift over-speed governor: working principle
The over-speed governor will only engage when the lift car moves up or down at an abnormally fast speed. It will then actuate the safety gear, which features metal clamps to stop the car.
More precisely, the over-speed governor works with a cam roller system. The “notched” pulley of the governor rotates in whilst the lift car is in motion. As long as the car speed is considered normal, the roller stays in contact with the cam. Just when the maximum allowed speed is exceeded (referred to as “over-speed”), the roller will come away from the cam and lock into one of the notches to immobilise the pulley and bring the governor rope to a stop.
The over-speed governor and safety gear are crucial devices for the safest possible transportation of passengers or goods in a lift! Naturally, they are mandatory for any new lift installation, and they must be inspected in all apparatuses.
On its website, OCTÉ sells a wide range of over-speed governors that are compatible with all lifts. The models available are classified according to their rated speed and tripping speed, which means the speed above which the governor detects an anomaly and triggers the safety gear. Our over-speed governors also feature:
o different coil voltages (48 VDC, 110 VDC, etc.)
o as a kit comprising: a prewired switch, fastening dowels, an insulating plate with four pads and a cover
To complete your installation, check out our governor tension device and cable on our OCTÉ online store!
Safety instructions for an over-speed governor
Aside from not obstructing closing doors and not exceeding the weight limit, safety instructions do not directly concern lift users. On the other hand, these instructions are very important for lift engineers carrying out servicing and maintenance.
Accordingly, it is vital that the over-speed governor is checked regularly and tested to ensure that it is in proper working order. A suitably qualified professional may opt to replace the over-speed governor with a newer model if the installed device is too old or defective, or if it no longer complies with current European safety standards or local regulations (existing lift infrastructure safety law in France).
You can trust OCTÉ to maximise the safety of lift users in your building, commonhold residential property or shopping centre! We have been a specialist lift designer, manufacturer and distributor since 1962. OCTÉ guarantees spare parts provision on these components for 10 years. Our expertise and advice set us apart on a daily basis. Ready to start your project? Then get in touch!
Also discover :
○ Inquiry forms and documentation