Magnetic Lighting Contactors

A magnetic lighting contactor is a relay switch that controls how electricity flows through a lighting circuit. The relay protects the operator from handling high voltages by allowing them to control the circuit remotely.

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What Is a Magnetic Lighting Contactor?

A magnetic lighting contactor is a relay switch that controls how electricity flows through a lighting circuit. The relay protects the operator from handling high voltages by allowing them to control the circuit remotely. 

The contactor has a power load but uses a much lower voltage to keep the operator safe. The relay controls the actual high-voltage circuit through the use of an electromagnet. 

Magnetic lighting contactors are helpful tools for protecting operators and controlling lights remotely, so it is important to understand how they work. 

How a Magnetic Lighting Contactor Works

It is necessary to review how a magnetic lighting contactor functions before selecting one. There are two incoming circuits and a third auxiliary circuit that provides the contactor with power. An induction coil connects to the auxiliary circuit, and when the flow of electrical current runs through the circuit, it generates a magnetic field. The field attracts an electromagnet.

 There are two fixed contacts attached to the contactor housing and two more moveable units attached to the electromagnet. They are kept apart by the force of a spring or gravity. When the coil itself receives energy, the contacts touch each other and power flows to the load. 

Manufacturers design lighting contactors to accept a variety of inrush currents. More specifically, some of these include tungsten, fluorescent and HID ballast lamps. A general use contactor typically has an inrush current of six times the full load, while a lighting contact can reach as high as 12 times the load. Lighting inrushes typically last far longer than a general inrush current. 

 Lighting contactors can also handle low-pressure and high-pressure lamp loads as well as non-motor loads. There are varying types of contactors based on specifications from the National Electrical Manufacturers Association (NEMA) in the United States and the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) in Europe. 

Types of Wire Control

Several different types of wire control serve distinct purposes for magnetic lighting contactors: 

• – Two-wire control: Two-wire control fits situations where there is a single automatic output operation or operation from a single-pole device. When voltage runs through the input terminals, the contactor latches into position and the coil is no longer in the circuit as control voltage runs continuously. The latch disengages when the control voltage is no longer present and the contactor returns to its original state. 
• – Three-wire control: Three-wire control fits scenarios where the device is momentary, so the user can control it from multiple locations. A momentary energy pulse activates the contactor. Meanwhile, a second pulse on a distinct leg brings the contactor back to its original state. 

Replace or Repair a Lighting Contactor With Global Electronic Services

Searching for a repair solution or want to purchase a lighting contactor for your company? Global Electronic Services has an extensive catalog of options above for your team to browse, backed by a world-class service team. Our repair professionals have the finest training and pass certifications in a variety of areas, including EASA, MIL-SPEC, ISCET and more. 

Call 877-249-1701 to chat with a knowledgeable professional for a quote or send us a message with your questions by filling out our contact form. 

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