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Transcript

By Pierre CLOUET

What is a Contactor? | Working Principles

2ºmel

27 de septiembre 2024

CONCEPTS

Glossary

Glossary

Contactor:

An electrically-controlled switch used to switch a power circuit on or off, primarily for high voltage applications such as controlling motors.

PLC (Programmable Logic Controller):

A digital computer used for automation of industrial processes, such as controlling machinery or factory assembly lines.

Contacts:

The conductive components in a contactor that open or close to control the flow of electrical power.

Relay:

An electrically-operated switch used for switching smaller current or voltage loads compared to contactors.

DC (Direct Current):

An electric current that flows in one direction only, used in low voltage coils of contactors.

AC (Alternating Current):

An electric current that reverses direction periodically, used in some contactor coils.

Wiring Terminals:

Points on an electrical device where wires are connected to facilitate the flow of current.

Power Supply:

A power supply unit (PSU) converts mains AC to low-voltage regulated DC power

Transformer:

A transformer is an electrical device that takes a given AC input voltage and changes it to a different AC output voltage

Auxiliary Contact:

A supplementary contact in a contactor used for signaling or feedback purposes.

MAIN CONCEPTS:Definition and Function : A contactor is a device used to make and break electrical circuits, primarily for controlling high voltage motors safely. It acts as an intermediary between a PLC and high voltage equipment to prevent damage to the PLC from electrical surges.

MAIN CONCEPTS:Operation : Contactors operate with a low voltage coil (usually 24V DC) that, when energized, creates an electromagnetic field to close contacts and allow power to flow to the motor. The PLC controls this coil, thereby managing the motor indirectly.Contactor vs. Relay : While both contactors and relays use coils and contacts to control devices, contactors are designed for higher current and voltage applications compared to relays, which are suited for smaller, low voltage devices.

MAIN CONCEPTS:Wiring Details : Contactors have specific terminals for connecting power (L1, L2, L3) and device wiring (T1, T2, T3). Additionally, they feature a feedback contact to signal the PLC when the contactor is functioning correctly or if there is a fault. Summary and Usage: Contactors are essential for safely controlling heavy electrical devices via a PLC, preventing direct connection and potential damage. The key difference from relays is their capability to handle higher power applications.

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