An automatic device mounted in the elevator shaft or machine room that continuously applies a metered quantity of lubricant to the suspension ropes as they pass through, eliminating the need for manual periodic re-lubrication.
Full Definition
The rope lubricator (automatic rope oiler) is a device through which the suspension ropes pass and receives a controlled dose of lubricant by capillary action, felt-pad absorption, or a precision gear pump. It is typically mounted just above the traction sheave (overhead traction) or at the bottom of the travel (drum or hydraulic systems with ropes). The lubricant reservoir holds sufficient oil for several months of operation. A sight glass or sensor indicates oil level. Automatic rope lubricators are particularly beneficial on high-cycle elevators (department stores, hospitals) where manual lubrication would be frequent. The lubricant used must be compatible with the rope core (fibre or steel) and approved by the rope manufacturer. The lubricator must be configured to apply the correct dose rate: too little allows corrosion; too much contaminates the traction sheave grooves and degrades traction. Maintenance includes checking the reservoir, dose rate, and verifying that lubricant is reaching the full rope length.
