Power and control contactors
Contactors are electromagnetic devices used to control and manage electrical circuits. They are designed to allow the connection and disconnection of electrical equipment and systems, such as motors, lights, heaters, and other high-power devices, with safety and efficiency. There are two main types of contactors: control contactors and power contactors, both of which play essential roles in electrical installations, primarily in industrial and commercial environments. Control contactors can be used in industrial automation systems, control panels, or low-voltage circuits. Power contactors can be used in heating systems, industrial lighting, or heavy machinery.
Control and Power Contactors
Contactors are electromagnetic devices used to control and switch electrical circuits. They are designed to safely and efficiently connect and disconnect electrical equipment and systems, such as motors, lighting, heaters and other high-power devices. There are two main types of contactors: control contactors and power contactors, both of which play essential roles in electrical installations, particularly in industrial and commercial environments. Control contactors can be used in industrial automation systems, control panels or low-voltage circuits. Power contactors can be used in heating systems, industrial lighting or heavy machinery.
Difference Between Control and Power Contactors
Although they share the same electromagnetic operating principle, it is essential to choose the right device for each application:
- Power Contactors: Designed to switch high currents, making them the main component for starting motors and large banks of resistive loads.
- Control Contactors (or Auxiliary Contactors): Used to process signals in logic and control circuits, ensuring coordination between different parts of an automation system.
Technical Features and Connectivity
Our catalogue includes solutions adapted to the real requirements of your installation or maintenance project:
- Versatile Coils: Options in 24V, 230V and 400V (AC/DC) for full compatibility with your electrical panel.
- Utilisation Categories: Contactors suitable for AC-1 (resistive loads) and AC-3 (squirrel-cage motors), ensuring long service life even under intensive switching cycles.
- Modular Accessories: Possibility of adding auxiliary contact blocks, timers and mechanical interlocks.
Common Industrial Applications
Henvi contactors are the preferred choice for:
Pumping and ventilation systems.
Automation and process control panels.
Network and power supply switching.
Large-scale public and industrial lighting control.
Why Trust Henvi for Your Contactors?
At Henvi, we focus on being the installer's trusted partner. In addition to offering high-quality control and power contactors, we provide specialised technical advice to help you select the most suitable rating and utilisation category, preventing premature equipment wear and ensuring continuity of service for your customers.
Frequently Asked Questions About Contactors
How do I select the right power contactor?
Selection should be based on the load's rated current (In), coil voltage and utilisation category (e.g. AC-3 for motors). It is recommended to choose a contactor with a safety margin above the maximum load to prevent contact welding.
What are the AC-1 and AC-3 utilisation categories?
AC-1 applies to non-inductive or slightly inductive loads, such as heaters. AC-3 is specifically intended for starting induction motors, where the starting current is significantly higher than the rated current.
Can auxiliary contacts be added to a power contactor?
Yes. Most of our contactors allow front or side mounting of additional contact blocks (NO/NC) for signalling, interlocking or control logic functions.
What are the most common control voltages?
The most common coil voltages are 230V AC (alternating current) for general applications and 24V DC (direct current) for systems using PLCs and safety automation.
