NEIEP Mechanics Practice Exam

At what speed should counterweight safeties be set to trip?

1. Exactly 5% higher than the car governor

2. Up to 10% higher than the car governor

3. 15% higher than the car governor

4. 20% higher than the car governor

The correct answer is: Up to 10% higher than the car governor

Counterweight safeties are critical components in the safety system of an elevator that help prevent uncontrolled movements. The speed at which these safeties trip is designed to ensure that they activate before a potentially dangerous situation can develop. The correct option indicates that counterweight safeties should be set to trip up to 10% higher than the car governor. The car governor is a device that monitors the speed of the elevator car and is designed to activate at a predetermined speed to prevent overspeed conditions. By setting the counterweight safeties to trip within this 10% range, it allows for a margin of safety that accommodates variations in system performance while ensuring that the counterweight safeties will intervene effectively. This strategic setting is essential to enhance the overall reliability and safety of the elevator system. In summary, this option strikes a balance between safety and the operational characteristics of the elevator, allowing for effective protection against overspeed situations while being aligned with industry safety standards.