Are More Light Beams in an Elevator Light Curtain Always Better?
In modern elevator safety systems, the elevator light curtain has become one of the most important devices for preventing door-closing accidents.
Many people assume that the more infrared “light beams” a light curtain has, the safer the elevator will be.
But is that really true? Does having more beams always mean better safety?
Today, the technical team from A-FLY Elevator & Escalator Parts Supplier reveals the truth behind the number of light beams in an elevator light curtain.
1. What Are the “Light Beams” in an Elevator Light Curtain?
An elevator light curtain is a safety detection system formed by infrared emitters and receivers installed on both sides of the elevator door.
Each pair of emitter and receiver creates one beam path—commonly referred to as a “light beam” or “light eye.”
Dozens or even hundreds of such beam pairs work together to form an invisible infrared safety wall.
When a person or object enters the doorway, any interruption of these infrared beams triggers the light curtain to send an instant signal to the elevator control system, instructing the doors to stop closing and reopen, thus preventing accidents involving passengers or objects.
2. Does Having More Light Beams Always Mean Better Safety?
In theory, more light beams provide denser detection and therefore higher safety.
However, in practical engineering terms, “more” does not always mean “better.” There are several reasons for this:
Detection Density Must Match Door Width
Different elevators have different door widths and heights, so the number of required light beams also varies.
Too many beams may complicate installation, increase cost, and provide only marginal safety improvement.
Signal Processing Capacity Has Limits
More beams mean more signals for the control system to process.
If the control board’s performance cannot keep up, excessive signals may cause response delays or false triggers.
Environmental Interference May Increase
In environments with dust, humidity, or strong light, having too many beams may actually increase interference, leading to false detection or sensor failure.
Balance Is Key
For standard residential elevators, a 32-beam or 40-beam light curtain already provides sufficient safety coverage.
For heavy-traffic commercial or high-end elevators,96-beam, 128-beam or 174-beam light curtains can deliver finer detection.
In short, the number of light beams should be scientifically selected based on the door width, environment, and safety requirements—not blindly increased.
3. Quantity Is Important, but Quality Matters More
Beyond the number of light beams, the quality of infrared emission, anti-interference performance, and signal-processing precision are even more critical for safety.
A high-quality light curtain can maintain precise detection even under strong light, dust, or electromagnetic interference, while a low-quality product—even with many beams—may suffer from missed signals or errors.
A-FLY’s elevator light curtain series uses high-sensitivity infrared modules and intelligent signal-processing chips to ensure accurate beam alignment, fast response, and stable operation even in harsh environments.
4. How to Choose the Right Elevator Light Curtain
When selecting a light curtain, consider more than just the number of beams. Key factors include:
Elevator door width and available installation space;
Compatibility with the control system (NPN, PNP, or Relay output types);
Environmental conditions (residential, commercial, or subway applications);
Product reliability, brand quality, and after-sales support.
A-FLY offers multiple types of elevator light curtains, including standard, high-density, anti-interference, and modernization-compatible models—all adaptable to major elevator brands.
5. Conclusion: The Right Fit Is the Best Choice
The number of light beams in an elevator light curtain does affect detection precision—but more is not always better.
True safety depends on a combination of scientific design, stable performance, and professional quality.
A-FLY Elevator & Escalator Parts Supplier continues to provide high-standard elevator light curtains and related safety components, ensuring elevators operate more intelligently, safely, and smoothly.
Choose A-FLY — where every door movement is precise, quiet, and secure.
