An energy-absorption device at the pit floor beneath the elevator car that cushions the impact of a car overrunning the lowest landing.
Full Definition
Car buffers are installed in the pit directly below the elevator car travel path. Two main types exist: spring buffers, which store and release energy elastically, are permitted only up to 1.0 m/s rated speed; oil (hydraulic) buffers dissipate kinetic energy through controlled oil flow through orifices and are required above 1.0 m/s. EN 81-20 §5.8 defines minimum stroke, deceleration limits (≤ 1 g average, ≤ 2.5 g peak), and return-to-normal time. Buffers must be periodically inspected for oil level, spring condition, and corrosion.
