CET Modernization & Upgrades 3 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: An elevator modernization includes upgrading the safeties. When must a new governor be installed along with new safeties?
- Only if the pit depth increases
- When the governor's tripping speed is incompatible with the new safety's design speed (Correct answer)
- Only if the machine is relocated
- Whenever the car sill is replaced
Correct answer: When the governor's tripping speed is incompatible with the new safety's design speed
The governor must be replaced if its tripping speed does not match the rated speed requirements of the newly installed safeties.
Question 2: During modernization, an elevator's buffer is found to be oil-type but undersized for the new higher contract speed. What must be done?
- Add a second pit stop switch
- Replace the buffer with one rated for the new contract speed and stroke (Correct answer)
- Paint the buffer red for visibility
- Increase the pit lighting level
Correct answer: Replace the buffer with one rated for the new contract speed and stroke
Buffers must be rated for the actual contract speed; an undersized oil buffer cannot absorb the kinetic energy at the new speed.
Question 3: What is a primary electrical code requirement when new wiring is installed during an elevator modernization?
- All wiring must be installed in surface-mounted conduit only
- New wiring must comply with the NEC and ASME A17.1 in effect at the time of the permit (Correct answer)
- Old wiring can remain if it still functions
- Wiring gauge must remain the same as original
Correct answer: New wiring must comply with the NEC and ASME A17.1 in effect at the time of the permit
New electrical installations during modernization must comply with the NEC and the current edition of ASME A17.1 adopted by the authority having jurisdiction.
Question 4: A property owner wants to increase an elevator's speed from 100 FPM to 200 FPM during a modernization. Which component is most likely to require replacement due to this speed increase?
- The car flooring
- The governor (Correct answer)
- The hall lanterns
- The machine room ventilation
Correct answer: The governor
The governor must be replaced because its tripping speed is calibrated for the original contract speed, not the new higher speed.
Question 5: When a hydraulic elevator is converted from a two-speed AC motor to a VVVF pump unit, what operational benefit is achieved?
- The elevator can now travel to a higher floor count
- Smoother acceleration and deceleration with improved leveling accuracy (Correct answer)
- Reduced pit depth requirement
- Elimination of the need for a pressure relief valve
Correct answer: Smoother acceleration and deceleration with improved leveling accuracy
VVVF drives allow variable pump speed, producing smooth, precise car movement and accurate floor leveling compared to two-speed motor systems.
Question 6: Which NFPA standard governs the installation of fire-rated hoistway doors that may need replacement during an elevator modernization?
- NFPA 13
- NFPA 80 (Correct answer)
- NFPA 72
- NFPA 101
Correct answer: NFPA 80
NFPA 80 covers the installation and maintenance of fire doors and windows, including hoistway entrance assemblies.
Question 7: During a modernization, the elevator inspector notices the existing hoistway clearances do not meet current ASME A17.1 requirements. How is this typically handled?
- The modernization permit is denied outright
- A variance or equivalency ruling is requested from the authority having jurisdiction (AHJ) (Correct answer)
- The car must be reduced in size
- The hoistway must be rebuilt before the permit is issued
Correct answer: A variance or equivalency ruling is requested from the authority having jurisdiction (AHJ)
When existing conditions cannot physically meet current code, a variance or equivalency is sought from the AHJ to document acceptance of the non-conforming condition.
CET Modernization & Upgrades 3
An elevator modernization includes upgrading the safeties.
When must a new governor be installed along with new safeties?