What component serves as a buffer in an elevator system?

In an elevator system, buffer springs play a crucial role in enhancing safety and functionality. They are specifically designed to absorb kinetic energy during a situation where the elevator car travels beyond its intended limits, such as when it descends too quickly or if there is an unexpected malfunction.

These springs act as a shock absorber, reducing the impact forces that the elevator car and its passengers would otherwise experience. This is especially important during emergency scenarios or when maintenance issues arise, ensuring that the car can stop safely without causing injury or damage.

The other components mentioned serve different purposes and do not specifically act as a buffer. For instance, the overload relay is responsible for detecting when the load exceeds a certain limit and preventing operation under those conditions, while the emergency stop switch provides a method to halt elevator operation in the case of an emergency. The control circuit is involved in managing the operation of the elevator but does not function to absorb shocks or impacts.