Best Auxiliary Contact Blocks for 2020

When performing electrical work in various production areas or power lines, an employee is faced with such a device as a block of auxiliary contacts (it is also called a contactor). If for professionals this equipment is clear, they know every aspect and nuance of choice, then for novice users such an element remains a mystery. To understand what a device is and how to choose it, the editorial staff of the site "bestx.htgetrid.com/en/" has prepared for you a rating of the best blocks of auxiliary contacts for 2020.

Main purpose

When working with electrical networks, an electrician must constantly turn on or off various devices, modules or loads, and also monitor their correct operation. At home, everything is easy, for the implementation of these processes, switches are used, through which electrical equipment is turned on or off. Such devices are effective and simple, but they have one significant drawback - mechanical wear. Therefore, this type is not suitable for working with large electrical systems, but the contactor will cope with such work by 5 points. In addition, the element has a long service life, which makes it possible to carry out on and off cycles not a hundred, but tens of thousands of times per hour. But the main feature is completely different - the device makes it possible to control the load, being at a considerable distance from the installation site, which increases the safety of operation.

Auxiliary contact blocks are used in every area of ​​human life. Thanks to them, street lights are turned on or some power lines (tram, railway lines, etc.) are turned off at a distance. The system is also useful in the construction and industrial sectors, as it allows you to safely start powerful power plants or similar equipment.

Contactors are also used in residential buildings, for example, using this device, the user can turn on or off an electric heating boiler, control ventilation, a pump that is used in sewer systems, etc. This is a relatively new device that allows you to control the house in one place, and not walk from one room to another. Therefore, during the construction of a new cottage, blocks of auxiliary contacts take a separate place.

Such equipment has high electrical safety, as it minimizes the chance of fires due to overvoltage.

The advantages of this equipment include:

• Connection to any electrical network;
• Small size;
• Do not make noise during operation;
• Used at high power or current ratings;
• Simple installation and operation;
• They function in various conditions.

How does a contactor work?

Auxiliary contact blocks are an electromagnetic device that is controlled by an auxiliary circuit current flowing through the coils of this element. When an electric current moves from one place to the core, a special armature is attracted, which contributes to the closure of the contacts. In the normal position, the contacts are in the open position, this is a necessary solution, as it contributes to increased electrical safety and improves ease of use.

In order for the device to be able to operate with high voltage and high currents, it must be manufactured only from high-quality element base. The main elements of the device:

• One or more pairs of contacts made of technical copper;
• Plastic housing that can withstand vibration and various loads;
• Electromagnetic coil;
• In order for the product to be able to work without problems with high currents, an arc extinguishing system is used.

The principle of operation of the device is as follows:

• Voltage is applied to the coils, for example, C1-C2.
• The solenoid is pulled in to create additional force to close the contacts.
• Contacts are closed.

It is important to remember that depending on the contact model, there may be one, two or more pairs. They can be placed arbitrarily or have a certain sequence. For high-speed and safe opening of contacts, a special spring is provided in the design of the blocks. If there is no voltage, then with the help of this element, the contacts open in a split second.

Monitoring of auxiliary contact blocks is possible thanks to the auxiliary circuit. However, it should be remembered that its voltage should not exceed the value of the operating current. There are models that are capable of functioning only with 24 or 42 V.

Varieties of contactors

Contact blocks differ in terms of application, type of current, etc. This is done to make it easier for a person to find a suitable option. In addition, there are products that differ in special capabilities.

Difference by type of current

There are no peculiarities here, the division occurs into two groups:

• The first one works only with constant current;
• The second category is for variable operation.

Which group to choose - each person must decide independently, based on the purpose.

Structural performance

Most of the products differ in the number of poles. Most often, models are used that have one or two poles. But there are also versions where there are three or four of them.

Three-pole products are more often found only in three-phase electrical networks, where only alternating current is used. This is found in the control of electric motors and similar equipment. In the factory, multi-pole models are sometimes used, but due to their specificity, they are rare.

Support systems

There are two versions of the auxiliary contact blocks:

• Without the use of arcing elements;
• Using a similar system.

If a person plans to use the equipment in networks where the voltage does not rise above 220 V, then a suitable option is without an arc extinguishing system. In cases where this value becomes 380 or 600 V, then the use of this system becomes a mandatory solution. Because only she can extinguish high currents.

Control method

There are only two control methods - manual and remote. The first option is suitable for inactive applications, while the second is intended for larger areas where switching is required hourly.

Varieties by drive

Products can be manufactured in two versions: electromagnetic and pneumatic. The first is one of the most common and is used in almost every area. Their effectiveness has been proven for more than a decade. Pneumatic have found application in the railway sector, where compressed air is present.

Installation method

This is the last criterion by which contactors differ. So they can be caseless and case models. Inside various electrical installations and shields, only the first option is most often used. However, it is important to understand that then the equipment will not be protected from the ingress of dust and moisture. The case versions can be installed anywhere and have good moisture protection.

Main technical parameters

In order to select a high-quality device that would fully satisfy the needs of the buyer, it is important to know the main technical characteristics of the device. And also how they differ from each other. For the right choice, it is important to know:

• Maximum and rated voltage;
• Possibility of connection with devices such as RCDs, which protect the contactor from short circuit;
• Parameters and options for changing accelerations;
• Resistance type and rating;
• Characteristics of all auxiliary elements.

The difference between contactors and starters

Auxiliary contact blocks and magnetic starters are often confused, especially by beginners. This is because both of these devices have the same function. In addition, they have the same design. The difference lies in one detail, which may not be noticeable at first glance. So, magnetic starters not only open and close the circuit, but serve as a kind of fuse, which allows you to save devices from overheating, and inside this model there are control elements that help to control. Standard contactors are deprived of these capabilities, all they can do is close and open a circuit, this is where its functions are over.

There is also a special type of device, which is commonly called an intermediate relay, its main purpose is to control low-current circuits. This device is capable of withstanding more closing cycles than conventional auxiliary units.

Connection features

Auxiliary elements are produced by dozens of global companies and unknown firms. Possess hundreds of ways to connect and perform. When it is necessary to connect this product, you must follow the instructions supplied with the product. In addition, some manufacturers include installation steps on the product box. It will be difficult at first to understand the scheme if the person does not have special knowledge of the installation of electrical devices.

It is important to know that regardless of the installation method of the device, two types of network should be used in the system: power and signal. The latter serves to start the equipment and close the power line. Therefore, full functioning is impossible without it.

When it is necessary to connect the equipment to asynchronous motors, then together with the auxiliary units, a thermal relay and an automatic device should be installed. The relay is designed to protect the device from possible overheating, and without a circuit breaker it is impossible to create normal short circuit protection.

Dealing with the connection of this equipment will not be difficult, the main thing is to read the instructions correctly and, if possible, not to neglect the Internet. It is worth knowing that a properly connected product will last ten times longer and will not create additional problems in the future. We must not forget that all installation work is carried out with the power supply disconnected in compliance with the requirements and safety rules. If there are unclear points in the instructions, then it is better to trust the professionals than to do it at random.

Rating of the best single-pole models

EKF KM 1P 16A 400 / 230V AC

An excellent model of a domestic manufacturer, which is in great demand among professionals and ordinary buyers. It has an excellent housing that does not allow moisture and dust to pass through.Control network type - AC. The maximum voltage is 400 V.

Sold at a price of 1,220 rubles.

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Schneider Electric iCT 1P 16A 230 / 220V AC

An excellent product from a French manufacturer that is suitable for home use. It has excellent technical characteristics and high-quality element base, which allows the equipment to be used in almost any conditions.

The average cost is 3 330 rubles.

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ABB ESB16-20N-06

The contactor of this company is designed for high-quality and safe switching of various electrical circuits or control of heating systems. The coil voltage is 230 V, which is enough for home use. Fits on a DIN rail and takes up only one slot there. The type of contacts used is standard - 2HO.

Sold at a price of 2,175 rubles.

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Top quality 2-pole auxiliary units

TDM ELECTRIC SQ0213-0001 20А

One of the best devices to withstand virtually any environment. Has a degree of protection: IP65. The nominal operating current is 20 A. Produced by a popular organization that has won the trust of millions of users throughout Europe.

The average cost is 665 rubles.

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IEK MKK10-40-11 40A

If a person is looking for a more perfect product, then the MKK10-40-11 40A model from IEK is a suitable option. The main feature of this product is a reliable plastic case, comfortable fixation and a rated operating current of 40 A. Degree of protection - IP20.

Sold at a price of 1,900 rubles.

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DEKraft 18064DEK

Modular contactor manufactured by one of the best companies. Designed to be placed on a DIN rail. Rated voltage - 230 V, sold in gray color. Protection degree - IP20.

The average price is 700 rubles.

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Rating of popular four-pole products

ABB GHE3291102R0006 24A

Durability and build quality are the two main criteria that make this product in demand among most professionals. The body is made of the best plastic, it is not subject to ignition, and in the event of a fire it will only melt. The rated operating current is 24 A, the voltage value under normal conditions is 220 V.

Sold at a price of 2,700 rubles.

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Legrand 412535 25A

Another device of a top organization. The product operates with AC current, which will suit most applications. The nominal current is 25 A. Installation is carried out on a rail, which is a more convenient way.

The average cost is 3,120 rubles.

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IEK MKK20-25-40 25А

Cheap, nonetheless, quality product suitable for most areas. Such a low cost is due to the inexpensive element base, while the manufacturer did not save on the case. The product will cope with any assigned task for the highest score and will not break down after several months of operation.

The average price is 1,660 rubles.

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When choosing a contactor, you should avoid unknown brands and devices of dubious quality. If you have experience using the models described in the rating, or more functional blocks of auxiliary contacts, tell us about it in the comments.