QEI - Qualified Elevator Inspector Hydraulic Elevator Systems Questions and Answers

Question 1

During a routine inspection of a hydraulic elevator, the QEI notices that the in-ground cylinder is not equipped with any form of corrosion protection.
The elevator was installed in an area with a high water table.
Which of the following is the MOST significant risk associated with this finding?

Accepted Answer

Catastrophic failure of the cylinder due to electrolysis and corrosion.

Answer

Increased energy consumption due to friction.

Answer

A gradual decrease in the elevator's rated speed.

Answer

Contamination of the hydraulic fluid with water.

Question 2

According to ASME A17.1, what is the primary purpose of the annual relief valve test on a hydraulic elevator?

Accepted Answer

To confirm the valve prevents system pressure from exceeding a safe limit.

Answer

To ensure the manual lowering valve operates smoothly.

Answer

To verify the accuracy of the pressure gauge.

Answer

To check for leaks in the hydraulic piston's seals.

Question 3

An inspector is examining a newly installed hydraulic elevator in a five-story building. The elevator's rated speed is 150 feet per minute (0.76 m/s). Which type of buffer would be required at the bottom of the hoistway?

Accepted Answer

Oil buffers, because the speed is greater than 1.0 m/s.

Answer

Spring buffers, because they are cost-effective.

Answer

Solid rubber bumpers, as they require no maintenance.

Answer

No buffers are required if the elevator has a plunger gripper.

Question 4

A QEI is performing a periodic inspection and finds that the flexible hydraulic hose connecting the power unit to the cylinder line has minor bulging near a fitting, but no visible leaks. What is the appropriate action?

Accepted Answer

Require immediate replacement of the flexible hose assembly.

Answer

Note it in the report for monitoring during the next inspection.

Answer

Recommend wrapping the bulging section with high-pressure tape.

Answer

Tighten the fitting to see if the bulge reduces in size.

Question 5

Which of the following components is unique to a roped hydraulic elevator system when compared to a conventional direct-acting hydraulic elevator?

Accepted Answer

A governor and safeties.

Answer

A hydraulic power unit with a pump and motor.

Answer

A piston and cylinder assembly.

Answer

A manual lowering valve.

Question 6

During the inspection of a hydraulic elevator machine room, what is the purpose of the device labeled 'Low Oil Protection'?

Accepted Answer

To prevent the pump motor from starting if the oil level in the tank is insufficient.

Answer

To automatically add more oil to the reservoir when the level is low.

Answer

To trigger an alarm if the oil viscosity falls below a specified limit.

Answer

To initiate a controlled descent to the lowest landing if a minor leak is detected.