Overspeed Governors
Critical lift safety devices that monitor speeds and uncontrolled movement.
About Overspeed Governors
Overspeed governors monitor lift speed and activate the safety gears when predetermined limits are exceeded. They provide essential protection against free-fall and uncontrolled movement. Our comprehensive range includes traditional mechanical governors from Bode, PFB, Montanari and Gervall, plus our revolutionary VG AiO Speed Watcher electronic system.
All our governors are EN81-20/50 certified and available for speeds from 0.15m/s to 7.5m/s. Modern options include UCM protection, remote tripping, encoders and anti-creep systems.
From simple pendulum governors to advanced electronic monitoring, we supply complete solutions including pulleys, rope and tension weights.
Featured Overspeed Governors
A lift overspeed governor (or elevator overspeed governor) is especially important for passenger safety and the reliable operation of elevators. Here’s why:
- Prevents Dangerous Speeding: If an elevator starts descending too quickly due to a malfunction (like a broken hoisting cable or control failure), the overspeed governor detects this excessive speed.
- Activates the Safety Brake: Once overspeed is detected, the governor triggers the safety gear (or brakes) to clamp onto the guide rails and slow or stop the elevator, preventing a free fall.
- Protects Passengers: By stopping the elevator from falling uncontrollably, it drastically reduces the risk of injury or death.
- Complies with Safety Regulations: Modern elevator codes and standards require overspeed governors as a mandatory safety feature.
- Prevents Equipment Damage: By controlling overspeed, it avoids damage to the elevator system, such as the motor, cables, or mechanical components.
In essence, the lift overspeed governor is a critical lifesaving device that ensures elevators don’t descend faster than safe limits, maintaining passenger safety and equipment integrity.
Atwell Overspeed Governors
Gervall Overspeed Governors
Why this matters to your operations
Our premium quality overspeed governors prevent catastrophic failures and help you meet strict regulatory requirements for passenger safety and UCM protection. The benefits include:
- EN81-20/50 certified for regulatory compliance
- Electronic options eliminate mechanical reaction times
- UCM modules prevent uncontrolled car movement
- Remote tripping enables testing without shaft access
- Anti-creep systems detect gradual movement
- Wide speed range covers all applications
Why choose Atwell?
Our expertise spans 25+ years of supplying and supporting lift safety systems. We calculate the exact specifications for your installation, considering car mass, rated speed and shaft conditions. Our technical team then provides comprehensive support from initial product selection through installation and ongoing maintenance. We stock leading manufacturers, including Henning, ensuring rapid delivery of certified products. Every buffer we supply includes detailed installation documentation, compliance certification and access to our Worcester-based technical support team, who understand the critical role buffers play in your safety chain.
Let’s talk
Need help selecting the correct buffer for your installation?
Contact us on 01905 641881 or email for detailed specifications and a competitive quote tailored to your exact requirements.
