NEIEP Mechanics Practice Exam

What hazardous condition can occur if the weight of the temporary car and counterweight are not kept nearly equal?

1. The elevator may operate too slowly

2. Traction could be lost

3. The car may become stuck

4. Increased wear and tear on the machinery

The correct answer is: Traction could be lost

When the weight of the temporary car and counterweight are not kept nearly equal, a hazardous condition known as loss of traction can occur. Traction is essential for the proper functioning of an elevator's pulley system, as it prevents slipping and ensures that the car moves smoothly up and down the shaft. If the weights are imbalanced—meaning that the counterweight is insufficiently heavy to match the temporary car’s weight—the traction may be disrupted. This could lead to the elevator car lacking the necessary grip on the traction sheaves, causing it to ascend or descend unpredictably or even become inoperable. In contrast, other conditions like slow operation or mechanical failure—though potentially problematic—are not directly tied to the balance of weights in the way that lost traction is. Maintaining a correct balance is crucial for both operational efficiency and safety in any elevator system.