What Is A Contactor?

A contactor is a device that allows a current to flow from one point to another. Its use in electric motors is essential for many applications, including lighting, air-conditioning, and refrigeration. Contactors range in rating from a few amperes and 24 volts to thousands of amperes and several kilovolts. They’re easy to use and can be easily installed. 

A contactor consists of two separate circuits: the main circuit and a control circuit. The main circuit has a larger current than the control circuit, but they correspond in size. A contractor that is large in volume will usually have a protective cover, which protects it from damage in case of an arc. 

A contactor is a widely used device in power distribution. It uses coils to move a current to create a magnetic field. When the contacts are closed, it stops power to a load. Contactors are essential in electrical power systems because they quickly shut down AC main circuits and can frequently connect to large current control circuits. 

If you want to know more about contactors, continue reading this article. 

Why Is A Contactor Used?

It can be used to control electrical power in a variety of different electrical applications. These electromagnetic devices have different functions, such as high or low inrush current, short circuit resistance, and thermal resistance. Because of this, the contractor is an important component of most electrical systems. Its use in lighting, home appliances, and other electrical appliances is an essential part of our everyday lives.

Contactors come in different sizes and capacities. Their current breaking ranges from a few amperes to thousands. They can be double break or single break, depending on their design. Double break contacts have a dual contact design, which allows them to open and close the circuit in two locations simultaneously. These contacts also have low internal impedance. In general, a contractor has two circuits. The main circuit is the one that exchanges electrical energy, while the control circuit controls the amount of power.

A contactor consists of a coil and spring. The coil acts as an electromagnet and attracts the movable core to the stationary contacts. As the current passes through the coil, the magnetic field pulls the movable contact toward the fixed contacts. The spring then separates the two contacts. When the power is turned off, the spring and gravity will return the contact to its position. This process repeats over.

The Working Principle of a Contactor

The working principle of a contactor can be understood by studying its structure. The main component of a contactor is an electromagnet that is excited by the current passing through it. The current excites the electromagnet, which in turn creates a magnetic field, which moves the armature. When the supply stops, the armature returns to its original position, and a normally closed contact completes the circuit between the moving and fixed contacts. This electromechanical switch is a type of switch but is powered at a lower level than a switched circuit.

There are many types of contactors. The type you choose will depend on several factors, including the operating voltage, the size of the contacts, and the type of load you will supply. The AC rating is a good indication of the load a contractor can supply. A magnetic contactor, on the other hand, consists of a coil and an associated magnetic circuit. The operating coil acts as an electromagnet, which excites the electromagnet, which moves the armature and actuates the contacts. The armature moves the contacts, and the contacts close or open when the current stops.

A contractor has many parts, each with its own function. When time is supplied to the contractor, it generates an electromagnetic field, which attracts the moving coil to the fixed one. A moving coil is then pushed forward by this force, which connects it to the fixed coil. Once the circuit has been established, a contactor can be placed at the intersection between the power and load.