During elevator motion, peak current should not exceed how many times the nameplate rating at full load?

• A. 1.0
• B. 2.0
• C. 1.5
• D. 3.0

Answer: (C)

Peak current during elevator motion is about providing enough torque to start and accelerate, but it must stay within safe limits for the motor and control system. The nameplate rating is the current the motor is designed to carry continuously at full load. When the motor starts, current spikes, and you want to limit that spike so you don’t overheat the windings or trip protective devices. A practical, widely used limit is about one and a half times the full-load current. Staying near this value gives enough starting torque without pushing the windings or wiring beyond what they can safely handle.

Choosing a limit equal to the full-load current would leave little room for the inrush needed to start moving, while higher multiples such as two or more times would increase heating and the chance of protective trips or voltage drops in the system.