Magnetic Motor Contactors

Electronic motors require large power draws when they start and while they are in operation. A magnetic motor contactor is made to mitigate these large currents to protect the motor.

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What Are Magnetic Contactors?

Magnetic motor contactors are devices for electric motors that balance out frequency changes between multiple direct power sources. The different frequencies are a result of the different parameters between these power sources. By evening out the frequencies, the magnetic contactor guards the electric motor circuits and the power sources against damage.

A magnetic contactor has two metal contacts within the contacts of the parent device. One contact leads to an electromagnetic coil and the other to an iron core. An electric current flows through the magnetic contactor, creating a magnetic field between its electromagnets. The electromagnetism is necessary for the magnetic contactor to work. The electric current pulls the iron core to the electromagnetic coil, forming an electrical arc where electricity passes from one contact to its parent device. This connection is broken when there is no electrical current, or the components are physically separated.

A full voltage — or across-the-line — magnetic motor contactor gives the motor the total voltage, so it can handle the high voltage current.

Uses for Magnetic Motor Contactors

Magnetic motor contactors can be used for any application that uses an electric motor, as they are specially designed to handle their high current draw. The starting current is much higher than what the motor requires, and magnetic motor contactors are the only devices that can create a time delay to protect the motor.

Applications for magnetic contactors include woodworking machinery like shapers and cabinet saws or any engine that requires high horsepower. They’re installed either in control panels or as standalone units within an enclosure.

Common Questions and Problems for Magnetic Contactors

It is a common misconception about magnetic motor contactors that they are a kind of circuit breaker due to their similar shapes. However, this is not true. Magnetic contactors and circuit breakers perform different functions. Whereas circuit breakers end the connection, the magnetic contactor does not, so there is still live current in the device.

Magnetic motor contactors are also not the same as relay devices. Relay is used for loads that are 10 amps or less, on single-phase appliances with a common contact for the appliance connection. A magnetic contactor withstands 10 amps or more, is used on three-phase appliances and has two poles for its appliance connection.

Benefits of Buying Magnetic Motor Contactors at Global Electronic Services

Global Electronic Services has thousands of new, surplus, refurbished and obsolete equipment options for sale, meaning your company can find the right product every time. Our facility also handles industrial electronic repairs. We have thousands of parts in stock and can return your equipment to you in one to five days.

Order Your Magnetic Motor Contactor Online Today

Global Electronic Services has many magnetic contactors — you can browse our options on this page. If you have any questions or you would like to learn more, call 877-249-1701 today.

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