Elevator light curtains play a critical role in ensuring passenger safety and smooth door operation. When installed correctly, they can prevent accidents by detecting obstructions and halting door closure. However, even minor installation errors can compromise their effectiveness, leading to system malfunctions and potential safety hazards. In this article, we provide a detailed guide on common installation mistakes and practical solutions for elevator light curtains, helping maintenance personnel avoid pitfalls and maintain optimal performance.
Common Installation Mistakes and Their Solutions
1. Wiring Errors or Power Supply Issues
Issue:
Light curtains may fail to operate, display abnormal indicator lights, or produce unstable signals.
Possible Causes:
- Incorrect wiring, such as mixing up 220V and 24V connections.
- Failure to create a common power circuit with the PLC.
- Improper relay wiring, including wrong selection between normally open (NO) and normally closed (NC) contacts.
Solution:
- We must strictly follow the wiring diagram provided in the manufacturer’s manual.
- Ensure that the power supply is stable, possibly by using an independent power source or a voltage stabilizer.
- Check that the power box is correctly connected to the elevator door controller system so they share the same power supply.
2. Incorrect Installation Position and Spacing
Issue:
Improper positioning can cause the light curtains to fail to detect obstructions, create blind spots, or trigger frequent false alarms.
Possible Causes:
- The gap between light curtain bars is less than 6mm.
- The height difference between the bars exceeds 1mm.
- Vertical alignment deviates by more than 2mm.
- Installation in areas exposed to direct sunlight or strong infrared interference.
Solution:
- Ensure that when the doors are closed, the gap between light curtain bars is at least 6mm, with the bottom of the bars positioned 2-10mm above the threshold.
- Maintain a vertical alignment error of no more than 2mm.
- Adjust the light curtain’s location to avoid direct sunlight or background infrared interference, and consider installing a shading device if needed.
3. Ignoring Electromagnetic Interference and Grounding Issues
Issue:
Indicator lights may flicker, and signals might be unstable, leading to erratic system behavior.
Possible Causes:
- Proximity to interference sources such as inverters, servo motors, or other high-power devices.
- Shielding cables not properly grounded.
Solution:
- Keep the light curtain installation at least 2 meters away from potential interference sources.
- Ensure that all shielding cables are reliably grounded.
- Avoid running light curtain wiring parallel to power cables to reduce electromagnetic interference.
4. Improper Cable Fixation Leading to Breakage
Issue:
Intermittent light curtain failures or complete system damage due to cable breakage.
Possible Causes:
- Insufficient cable length or poor cable fixation.
- Repeated strain from door movement causing the cable to be pulled and damaged.
Solution:
- Maintain a natural curvature of the cable during installation and secure it using proper cable ties.
- Use specialized flexible cables designed for elevator applications, and pre-allocate an appropriate length to accommodate door movement without causing tension.
5. Inadequate Handling of Mounting Holes and Accessories
Issue:
The light curtain may not be installed properly or may become insecure over time.
Possible Causes:
- Mismatch between the mounting holes on the elevator door and the new light curtain.
- Not using manufacturer-specified screws, brackets, or other accessories.
Solution:
- Re-measure and confirm the mounting hole positions before drilling new holes.
- Use original manufacturer accessories to ensure proper fit and secure installation.
6. Neglecting Environmental Factors and Maintenance
Issue:
Accumulation of dust, moisture, or excessive vibrations can degrade the performance of the light curtain, leading to misfires or complete failure.
Possible Causes:
- Inadequate cleaning and maintenance in dusty or humid environments.
- Loose mounting screws due to prolonged vibrations.
Solution:
- Establish a regular cleaning schedule, especially in high-dust areas, to remove accumulated debris from the light curtain surfaces.
- Increase maintenance frequency in humid or dusty conditions.
- Regularly check and tighten all mounting screws to prevent misalignment over time.
To prevent the aforementioned issues, we recommend the following best practices:
Pre-Installation Checklist
- Verify Wiring and Power:
Confirm that the wiring diagram is followed exactly and that the power supply is stable. - Inspect the Installation Area:
Ensure that the area is free from interference, with proper spacing for the light curtains.
Professional Installation
- Certified Technicians:
We recommend that only trained and certified technicians handle the installation. - Accurate Measurements:
Precisely measure the installation space, ensuring that the dimensions (length, width, and height) meet the specifications.
Note: The length dimension should be based on the size of the water collecting tray to guarantee proper integration.
Post-Installation Testing
- System Functionality:
Perform thorough tests to verify sensor alignment, signal stability, and overall functionality. - Calibration:
Calibrate the system according to manufacturer guidelines, and document all test results for future maintenance reference.
Conclusion
Proper installation of elevator light curtains is crucial for maintaining safety and ensuring smooth operation. By avoiding common mistakes such as wiring errors, incorrect positioning, inadequate grounding, and poor cable fixation, we can significantly reduce the risk of system failures. Regular maintenance and adherence to manufacturer guidelines further enhance performance and longevity.
For maintenance personnel looking for reliable, high-quality elevator parts, POTENSI offers a premium range of elevator light curtains that meet international safety standards. Our expert products and support will enhance your elevator’s safety and efficiency.
Contact us today to learn more about our high-quality elevator light curtains and how POTENSI can help you achieve optimal performance and safety in your elevator systems!