Three Phase Motor Motor Contactors
Last Updated: April 1, 2025
Description
Three-phase motor contactors are devices used to control the power supply to electric motors. They function as a switch that can turn the motor on or off by opening or closing the electrical circuit. These contactors are essential components in motor starters, which are used to safely start and stop motors by managing the electrical current flow.
Working Principle
Three-phase motor contactors operate using an electromagnetic mechanism. When the coil within the contactor is energized, it creates a magnetic field that pulls a plunger or armature, closing the contacts and allowing current to flow through the motor circuit. This electromechanical action ensures that all three power-switching contacts engage simultaneously, providing a reliable means of controlling the motor's operation. The use of a solenoid to generate linear motion replaces the manual operation of switches, making the process more efficient and less prone to human error. These contactors are useful because they provide a safe and efficient way to control large motors, preventing overloads and ensuring smooth operation.
Applications
Three-phase motor contactors are widely used in industrial and commercial settings. Specific examples include their use in conveyor systems, where they control the motors that drive the belts. They are also employed in HVAC systems to manage the operation of compressors and fans. In manufacturing, these contactors are crucial for controlling the motors in machinery such as lathes, mills, and pumps, ensuring precise and reliable operation.
Advantages over other Motor Contactors
Three-phase motor contactors offer several advantages over other types of contactors. They are designed to handle higher power loads, making them suitable for large industrial motors. Their ability to control multiple phases simultaneously ensures balanced power distribution and reduces the risk of motor damage due to phase imbalance. Additionally, the use of auxiliary contacts allows for integration with other control systems, enhancing their versatility and functionality.
Limitations
One limitation of three-phase motor contactors is their complexity compared to simpler, single-phase contactors. This complexity can lead to higher initial costs and more intricate installation processes. Additionally, they require a stable power supply to function correctly, and any fluctuations in voltage can affect their performance.
Considerations
When selecting three-phase motor contactors, several factors should be considered. Initial costs can be higher due to the complexity and size of the contactors, but these costs are often offset by their durability and reliability. Operating expenses may include energy consumption and maintenance, which can vary depending on the specific application and environment. Durability is generally high, but regular maintenance is necessary to ensure optimal performance and longevity. Replacement and maintenance costs should also be factored into the overall cost of ownership, as worn or damaged components may need to be replaced over time to maintain efficiency and safety.
from Altech Corp.
Features: 8 Frame Sizes. 1/2HP up to 600HP @ 480V AC. Direct Mounting Overload Relays. Degree of protection:IP20. Flame Resistance:According to UL948 [See More]
- AC Motor Phase: Three
- Device Technology: Electro-mechanical
- Standard Rating: NEMA; IEC
- NEMA Size: 3
from Fuji Electric Corp. of America
Introducing our newest magnetic contactor and thermal overload relay products to succeed our Orange Line series and smaller Odyssey series contactors that have been around since 1999. SC-NEXT products range from 5HP to 50HP at 480VAC. This new products series come standard with terminal covers and... [See More]
- AC Motor Phase: Three
- Continuous Current: 5 to 11
- Standard Rating: IEC
- Motor Voltage: 200 to 690
from Radwell International
AUXILARY CONTACT, 1 NC, SIZE 00, 3 PHASE, FOR CONTACTOR & STARTER. FREE 2 YEAR RADWELL WARRANTY [See More]
- AC Motor Phase: Three
from Altech Corp.
Features. Frame Size 100AF. 1/2HP up to 600HP @ 480V AC. Screw Terminals (Lug Terminals Available). Direct Mounting Overload Relays [See More]
- AC Motor Phase: Single; Three
- Device Technology: Electro-mechanical
- Standard Rating: NEMA; IEC
- NEMA Size: 1; 3 (optional feature)
from Radwell International
DISCONTINUED BY MANUFACTURER, CONTACT BLOCK, FOR CONTACTOR & STARTER, 3 POLE, MOUNTABLE, 3 PHASE. FREE 2 YEAR RADWELL WARRANTY [See More]
- AC Motor Phase: Three
- Number of Poles: 3
from Radwell International
DISCONTINUED BY MANUFACTURER 2008-10-30, CONTACTOR, IEC, MINI, 9 AMP, 100V 50HZ / 100-120V 60HZ, REVERSING, 3 POLE, 3 PHASE, IEC, DIN RAIL MOUNTABLE, OPEN STYLE. FREE 2 YEAR RADWELL WARRANTY [See More]
- AC Motor Phase: Three
- Continuous Current: 9
- Standard Rating: IEC
- Number of Poles: 3
from Radwell International
DISCONTINUED BY MANUFACTURER, CONTACT KIT, 3 POLE, CONTACT FOR CONTACTOR OR STARTER, 3 PHASE. FREE 2 YEAR RADWELL WARRANTY [See More]
- AC Motor Phase: Three
- Number of Poles: 3
from Radwell International
DISCONTINUED BY MANUFACTURER 10/29/2010, CONTACTOR, NON REVERSING, 600V AC MAX, 18 AMP MAX, SIZE 0, 3 POWER POLE, OPEN, 5 HP, 460-480V 60HZ, COMMON CONTROL, FULL VOLTAGE, 3 PHASE, NEMA, NON COMBINATION, OPEN STYLE, MOUNTABLE. FREE 2 YEAR RADWELL WARRANTY [See More]
- AC Motor Phase: Three
- Continuous Current: 18
- Standard Rating: NEMA
from Radwell International
CONTACTOR, NEMA SIZE 0, THREE PHASE, OPEN TOP WIRE CONTACTOR, 3 POWER POLES, AUXILIARY CONTACT 1NO/1NC, COIL 110V 50HZ / 120V 60HZ. FREE 2 YEAR RADWELL WARRANTY [See More]
- AC Motor Phase: Three
- Standard Rating: NEMA
from Radwell International
DISCONTINUED BY MANUFACTURER, DISCONTINUED DATE: 2011-09-29, CONTACTOR, NON REVERSING, FULL VOLTAGE, 600 VAC MAX, 18 AMP MAX, 3 PHASE, NON COMBINATION, NEMA, OPEN STYLE, MOUNTABLE. FREE 2 YEAR RADWELL WARRANTY [See More]
- AC Motor Phase: Three
- Continuous Current: 18
- Standard Rating: NEMA
- Motor Voltage: 600
from Radwell International
CONTACTOR, FEED THROUGH, NON REVERSING, NEMA SIZE 5, 270 AMP, 575 VAC @ 50 HZ, 600 VAC @ 60HZ, NO OPTION, 3 POWER POLES, 3 PHASE, NO DISC OR CB AUX CONTACTS, FULL VOLTAGE, 3 PHASE, NON COMBINATION, NEMA, OPEN STYLE, MOUNTABLE. FREE 2 YEAR RADWELL WARRANTY [See More]
- AC Motor Phase: Three
- Continuous Current: 270
- Standard Rating: NEMA
- Motor Voltage: 575 to 600
from Radwell International
DISCONTINUED BY MANUFACTURER 12/31/2018, CONTACTOR, NON REVERSABLE, 3 PHASE, OPEN TOP WIRE CONTACTOR, 3 POWER POLES, NEMA 7, 110 V 50 HZ, 120 V 60 HZ, NON COMBINATION, FULL VOLTAGE, NEMA, OPEN STYLE, MOUNTABLE. FREE 2 YEAR RADWELL WARRANTY [See More]
- AC Motor Phase: Three
- NEMA Size: 7
- Standard Rating: NEMA
from Radwell International
DISCONTINUED BY MANUFACTURER, CONTACTOR, NON REVERSING, 600 VAC AC MAX, 9 AMP MAX, FULL VOLTAGE, 3 PHASE, NON COMBINATION, OPEN STYLE, DIN RAIL MOUNTABLE. FREE 2 YEAR RADWELL WARRANTY [See More]
- AC Motor Phase: Three
- Motor Voltage: 600
- Continuous Current: 9
from Radwell International
CONTACTOR, NON REVERSING, SIZE 2, 60 AMP, NEMA 3R/4/12 METAL NO RESET, 3 POWER POLES, NEMA 3R/12 PAINTED METAL, 115-120 VAC @ 60 HZ, NO FUSE COVER, STANDARD CAPACITY, FULL VOLTAGE, 3 PHASE, NEMA, NON COMBINATION ,MOUNTABLE. FREE 2 YEAR RADWELL WARRANTY [See More]
- AC Motor Phase: Three
- NEMA Size: 3
- Standard Rating: NEMA
- Continuous Current: 60
from Radwell International
DISCONTINUED BY MANUFACTURER, CONTACTOR, NON REVERSING, 110AMP, 50/60HZ, 550VDC, 115V COIL, FULL VOLTAGE, 3 PHASE, NON COMBINATION, NEMA, OPEN STYLE, MOUNTABLE. FREE 2 YEAR RADWELL WARRANTY [See More]
- AC Motor Phase: Three
- Standard Rating: NEMA
from Radwell International
DISCONTINUED BY MANUFACTURER, VACUUM CONTACTOR, 3 PHASE, 2500-5000V, 400AMP, ELEC. HELD. FREE 2 YEAR RADWELL WARRANTY [See More]
- AC Motor Phase: Three
from Radwell International
CONTACTOR, 3 POLE, 3 PHASE, 16AMP, 600VOLT, 5HP @ 230V, 10HP @ 460V, 15HP @ 575V, COMPLETE WITH 110/120VAC COIL, 2NO/2NC AUX CONTACT INSTALLED, AC CONTACTOR. FREE 2 YEAR RADWELL WARRANTY [See More]
- AC Motor Phase: Three
- Number of Poles: 3
from Radwell International
CONTACTOR, EASYPACT TVS, 3 POLE, 3 / NO, 3 PHASE, 220/440 VAC, 50/60 HZ, 9 AMP, IP2X. FREE 2 YEAR RADWELL WARRANTY [See More]
- AC Motor Phase: Three
- Motor Voltage: 440
- Continuous Current: 9
- Number of Poles: 3
from Radwell International
DISCONTINUED BY MANUFACTURER, CONTACTOR, RATED AT 600 VAC, 3 PHASE, FUSE 150 AMP MAX, COIL: 200 VAC - 250 VAC 50/60HZ - 200 VDC - 220 VDC, 3 POLE, 2NO/2NC, 65 AMP. FREE 2 YEAR RADWELL WARRANTY [See More]
- AC Motor Phase: Three
- Motor Voltage: 200 to 600
- Continuous Current: 65 to 150
- Number of Poles: 3
from Radwell International
DISCONTINUED BY MANUFACTURER, CONTACTOR, CA3 SERIES, NON-REVERSING, 9 AMP, 3 POLE, 2 HP @ 230V / 5 HP @ 460V (3 PHASE), 1 NC AUX CONTACT, 110/120 VAC 50/60 HZ COIL. FREE 2 YEAR RADWELL WARRANTY [See More]
- AC Motor Phase: Three
- Motor Voltage: 120
- Continuous Current: 9
- Number of Poles: 3
from Radwell International
CONTACTOR, 9 AMP, 110 VDC COIL, 230/690 VAC, 4 POLE, 3 PHASE, NORMALLY OPEN POLES, FOR USE WITH BULLETIN 100-C SERIES MOTOR CONTROL SYSTEMS. FREE 2 YEAR RADWELL WARRANTY [See More]
- AC Motor Phase: Three
- Motor Voltage: 690
- Continuous Current: 9
- Number of Poles: 4
from Radwell International
DISCONTINUED BY MANUFACTURER 2012-12-30, CONTACTOR, IEC, 40 AMP, 24 VDC, 3 POLE, NON-REVERSING, 3 PHASE, IEC, DIN RAIL MOUNTABLE, OPEN STYLE. FREE 2 YEAR RADWELL WARRANTY [See More]
- AC Motor Phase: Three
- Continuous Current: 40
- Standard Rating: IEC
- Number of Poles: 3
from Radwell International
CONTACTOR, TESYS D, TYPE LP1D, 3 POLE, 3 PHASE, 125 AMP, 600V, 10HP @ 240V, 30 HP @ 480V, 60 HP @ 600V, COMPLETE WITH 24V DC COIL, 1 NO/1NC AUXILIARY CONTACT, DC MAGNETIC CONTACTOR, SUITABLE FOR USE WITH LP1-D SERIES MOTOR CONTROL SYSTEMS. FREE 2 YEAR RADWELL WARRANTY [See More]
- AC Motor Phase: Three
- Number of Poles: 3
- Continuous Current: 125
from Radwell International
AC CONTACTOR, NON REVERSABLE, NON MOTOR LOADS, TOP WIRING, 60 AMP, 3 PHASE, 4 POLE, NON COMBINATION , FULL VOLTAGE, NEMA, OPEN STYLE, MOUNTABLE. FREE 2 YEAR RADWELL WARRANTY [See More]
- AC Motor Phase: Three
- Continuous Current: 60
- Standard Rating: NEMA
- Number of Poles: 4
from Radwell International
CONTACTOR AC, 3 PHASE, 30 AMP, 100-110VAC, 50/60HZ COIL. FREE 2 YEAR RADWELL WARRANTY [See More]
- AC Motor Phase: Three
- Continuous Current: 30
from Radwell International
LIGHTING CONTACTOR, NON REVERSING, SIZE 1, 30 AMP, 2 POWER POLES, LIGHTING CONTACTOR, OPEN STYLE, OPEN, 230-240 VAC, 60 HZ, NO OPTION, FULL VOLTAGE, 3 PHASE, NON COMBINATION, NEMA, OPEN STYLE, MOUNTABLE. FREE 2 YEAR RADWELL WARRANTY [See More]
- AC Motor Phase: Three
- Continuous Current: 30
- Standard Rating: NEMA
- Motor Voltage: 240
from Radwell International
CONTACTOR, NON REVERSING, 600 VAC MAX, NON-MOTOR LOADS, FEED-THROUGH, 200 AMP, FULL VOLTAGE, 3 PHASE, NEMA, NON COMBINATION, OPEN STYLE, MOUNTABLE. FREE 2 YEAR RADWELL WARRANTY [See More]
- AC Motor Phase: Three
- Continuous Current: 200
- Standard Rating: NEMA
- Motor Voltage: 600
from Radwell International
LIGHTING CONTACTOR W/ TOP WIRING, AMPERAGE: 15 - 20 AMP CONTINOUS RATING AC, POLES: 4, 3 PHASE, FREQUENCY 50/ 60 HZ. FREE 2 YEAR RADWELL WARRANTY [See More]
- AC Motor Phase: Three
- Continuous Current: 20
from Selectric, Inc.
IEC style contactors, F-line; 3 pole, amp ratings; AC3-115, AC1-175 [See More]
- AC Motor Phase: Three
- Device Technology: Electro-mechanical
- Standard Rating: IEC
- Thermal Current: 115
from Schneider Electric
Available with current ratings from 20-90A. Compact 1 and 2 pole contactors and full size 2, 3, and 4-pole devices [See More]
- AC Motor Phase: Single; Three
- Motor Voltage: 110 to 600
- Continuous Current: 20 to 90
from Automation24, Inc.
The compact Siemens solidstate contactor 3RF3416-1BB04 is offered for the performance range up to 7.5 kW at AC-3/400 V. The solid state contactor 3RF3416-1BB04 uses a control supply voltage of 24 V DC and features practical screw terminals. It is two-phase controlled, instantaneous-switching. Even... [See More]
- AC Motor Phase: Three
- Continuous Current: 16
- Device Technology: Solid State
- Control Voltage: 24
from CARLO GAVAZZI Automation Components
Power contactors specifically designed for the OEM when contactor, performance and cost must be optimized. Perfect choice for HVAC, lighting, pumps, compressors, pools, spas, welders, etc. Available in standard 1, 2 and 3-pole type. Definite Purpose Contactors. Switching up to 100A resistive, 90A... [See More]
- AC Motor Phase: Single; Three
- Motor Voltage: 24 to 480
- Continuous Current: 25 to 90
- Number of Poles: 1 to 3
from WorldWide Electric Corporation
Four point AC coil can be wired on top, bottom or diagonally. Direct mount 3RU11 overload relays to create starters. Snap-on auxiliary contacts, surge suppressors and timers. 3RT01 contactors are available with cage clamps on the main terminal connections as well as the auxiliary terminal... [See More]
- AC Motor Phase: Single; Three
- Continuous Current: 7 to 20
- Standard Rating: IEC
from Automation24, Inc.
The compact solid state reversing contactor 3RF3403-1BD04 from Siemens can be used as reversing contactor for the performance range up to 1.5 kW at AC-3/400 V. The solid state reversing contactor 3RF3403-1BD04 uses a control supply voltage of 24 V DC and features practical screw terminals. Even with... [See More]
- AC Motor Phase: Three
- Continuous Current: 3.8
- Device Technology: Solid State
- Control Voltage: 24
from CARLO GAVAZZI Automation Components
General. Compact size with powerful performance. Approx. 2 ¼ cubic inches (55 cubic mm). One frame size for three current ratings. Up to 7.5HP motor rating. Up to 20A resistive rating. AC or DC control voltage. Four connection types (shown in the picture above). Standards. cUL, CE and RoHS... [See More]
- AC Motor Phase: Single (optional feature); Three
- Device Technology: Electro-mechanical
- Standard Rating: NEMA
- NEMA Size: 00
from CARLO GAVAZZI Automation Components
General. Four frame sizes. Motor ratings of each frame size: Up to 20, 30, 60 or 75HP. Resistive rating Up to 40, 60, 100, 160A. AC or DC coil voltage. Two connection types: Screw terminal connections are available on all frame sizes Lug terminals connections are available on 63 and 100 amp sizes. [See More]
- AC Motor Phase: Single (optional feature); Three
- Device Technology: Electro-mechanical
- Standard Rating: NEMA
- NEMA Size: 00; 0; 1; 2; 3