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Elevator Rope Tension Equalizer: Why Balance Matters, Adjustment Procedure and EN 81-20 Requirement

Glossary Rope Tension Equalizer

A device at rope termination points allowing individual adjustment of each suspension rope's tension to ensure equal load distribution across the full rope set.

Full Definition
Multi-rope elevators (typically 3–8 ropes) develop unequal tensions through manufacturing tolerances and differential stretch. The rope tension equalizer uses adjustable spring cartridges or threaded shackle rods at each rope termination to set every rope within ±5 % of mean tension. EN 81-20 requires that if any single rope becomes slack, the remaining ropes carry the full load without exceeding the required safety factor. Unequal tensions unevenly accelerate sheave groove wear, reduce rope fatigue life, and introduce vibration noticeable to passengers. Equalization is performed at commissioning and verified at periodic maintenance intervals. Hydraulic rope equalizers self-balance dynamically during operation.
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Term
Rope Tension Equalizer
Usage Area
All multi-rope traction elevators at commissioning and periodic maintenance checks
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