What is the purpose of a contactor?

The primary purpose of a contactor is to control high-power circuits with the use of low-power control signals. In practical terms, a contactor acts as an electrically-operated switch. It allows a small control voltage from a low-power signal to open or close a circuit that carries significantly higher voltage and current levels, thereby managing electrical loads safely and efficiently.

This capability is crucial in a range of applications, such as starting motors or controlling lights, where it is essential to separate the control mechanism from the high-power elements. This ensures safety and protects smaller components or control systems from damage that could occur if they were directly subjected to high power.

Understanding the function of contactors is key in designing and maintaining electrical systems, as they provide a means to control heavy loads without requiring extensive manual operations or complex mechanisms.