Reference our Lift Glossary

Some commonly used terms to help

you understand the lift system

  • Automatic Rescue Device (ARD)

    ARD is a safety system designed for lifts to automatically move the car to the nearest floor and open the doors in the event of a power failure.

  • Buffers

    Shock absorbers located at the bottom of the lift shaft, designed to cushion the car in case of an overrun or emergency stop.

  • Car Door

    The door on the lift car itself. It works in tandem with the landing doors, meaning both doors open simultaneously when the lift car arrives at a floor and closes together before the lift moves again.

  • Car Enclosure

    The passenger compartment of the lift, where passengers stand during transit.

  • Car Frame

    The structural framework that supports the lift car's enclosure.

  • Compensation Ropes

    Ropes used in tall buildings to balance the weight of the hoisting ropes, ensuring consistent tension and smooth operation of the lift.

  • Controller

    The 'brain' of the lift system, managing all operations and coordinating the movement of the lift car and doors.

  • Counterweight

    A weight that balances the lift car's load, reducing the energy needed to move the lift.

  • Door Operator

    A mechanism that controls the opening and closing of both the car and landing doors.

  • Door Sensors

    Safety devices that detect obstructions in the doorway, preventing the doors from closing on passengers or objects.

  • Emergency Battery Operated Power Supply (EBOPS)

    EBOPS is designed specifically for lift system to supply temporary power to ventilation fans, lights and emergency bells in the event of a power failure.

  • Governor

    A speed-monitoring device that activates the safety gear in case of overspeed.

  • Guide Rails

    Vertical tracks that guide and stabilise the movement of the lift car and counterweight within the shaft.

  • Guide Shoes

    Devices attached to the lift car that help it move smoothly along the guide rails, reducing friction and maintaining stability.

  • Landing Door

    Doors on each floor that open to allow passengers to enter or exit the lift car. It prevents access to the shaft when the lift car is not at that floor.

  • Limit Switches

    Sensors that detect the lift car’s position as it approaches the top or bottom terminal landings, ensuring it stops correctly.

  • Main Hoisting Ropes

    Steel cables that support and move the lift car and counterweight within the shaft.

  • Main Sheave

    A large, grooved wheel over which the hoisting ropes pass, transmitting motion from the traction machine to the lift car and counterweight.

  • Motor Bearings

    Components within the lift motor that reduce friction, enabling smooth and efficient motor operation.

  • Position Indicators

    Displays showing the current position of the lift car.

  • Roller Guides

    Components that ensure smooth vertical movement of the lift car.

  • Safety Gear

    An emergency braking system designed to stop the lift car if it exceeds its rated speed.

  • Traction Machine

    The 'engine' that drives the lift car, moving it up and down the shaft via the hoisting ropes.

  • Travelling Cable

    A flexible cable that carries electrical signals and power between the lift car and the controller, allowing for communication and control.