What Happens When You Ignore a Worn Elevator Traction Sheave?

Recently, Kunming Municipal Market Supervision Administration released the investigation report on the "2.18" elevator accident at Tongde Plaza. This fatal accident has highlighted the safety hazards of the elevator's core component—the elevator traction sheave. Caused by long-term unrectified wear of the elevator traction sheave and multiple parties' dereliction of duty, it warns all elevator users and maintenance firms. The elevator traction sheave is key to the elevator traction system, which serves as the elevator's power core.

At around 8:00 PM on February 18, 2025, the No. 1 freight elevator in Building 4 malfunctioned. A 59-year-old resident, Mr. Wei, entered from the 17th floor; within 55 seconds, the elevator plummeted to the second basement and then rushed to the 33rd floor, killing him instantly. Direct losses exceeded 1.66 million yuan. The 2012 Otis elevator had obvious hazards in its elevator traction system and traction sheave, with its elevator traction wheel excessively worn beforehand.

The core cause was severe wear on the traction sheave elevator's rope grooves. The maintenance company suggested replacing the elevator sheave repeatedly, but the property only replaced one steel cable perfunctorily. Known as the elevator's "lifeline", the traction sheave drives the car via friction with the steel cable, a key part of the traction machine. According to GB/T 7588, the cable must be inspected semi-annually. If wear exceeds 3mm or there are deformed rope grooves, immediate replacement is required to prevent steel cable slippage.

Additionally, the maintenance company falsified traction sheave elevator definition records, and the testing agency issued a false report. Currently, three involved companies are recommended for the dishonest list, and 15 persons are accountable. Regular maintenance of the elevator traction sheave and traction machine is mandatory.

Elevator safety is of paramount importance. Property management and maintenance companies must fulfill their responsibilities. For elevator traction wheel inspection/replacement services, please contact us: Email: [candice@nonaelevator.com]; WhatsApp: [+86 177 1952 7681]. We provide high-quality products and expert advice to help you avoid hazards.