Magnetic Contactor | Meaning, Types, Parts and Functions [Updated 2025]

 

What is a magnetic contactor?

A magnetic contactor is an electrical switching device. It is used for switching an electrical circuit on and off. It is a special type of relay, but there is a basic difference between the contactor and a relay. The contactor is mostly used in applications where higher current carrying capacity is involved, while the relays are used for lower current applications. Contactors are compact and can be field-mounted easily. Usually, these devices feature multiple contacts. The contacts are mostly normally open, and they provide operating power to the load whenever the contactor coil is powered. Contactors are popularly used with electric motors.

How does the magnetic contactor work?

The core mechanism of this component is due to the electromagnetism. The flow of electric current is efficient in producing a magnetic field in the coil of a contactor. This magnetic field, in turn, draws several contacts closer to form a complete circuit and allow current to flow. When the current decreases, the magnetic field disappears, and the contacts leave the previous position and open the circuit again. 

This single mechanism is indeed efficient and gives full control over electrical circuits. Since contacts and switching occur without touching each other, this considerably minimizes friction and wear, which in turn prolongs the life span of the electrical systems.  

What are the types of magnetic contactors?

There are three main types of magnetic contactors: 

1. AC magnetic contactors

• Design to control AC electrical loads.
• Commonly used in industrial settings where high voltage, high current, or both are required.
• Well-suited for harsh environments.
• The internal design is essential for efficiently and safely operating large machines, air conditioning units, and other heavy motors

2. DC magnetic contactors

• Use in DC systems that utilize direct current.
• Commonly found in automobile systems, photovoltaic installations, and locations with significant direct current flow.
• Used foremost in electric vehicles and solar power along with battery storage systems due to their good performance.

Read more: https://electgo.com/resources/magnetic-contactor

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What is a contactor?

ElectGo offers wide range of contactors from various brands including ABB , Schneider Electric , and Fuji Electric

3. Miniature magnetic contactors

• More diminutive outputs of standard contactors.
• Suitable for use in areas with limited space, such as control panels, small machinery, and home automation systems.

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Differences between relay and contactors?

ElectGo offers a wide range of contactors from various brands including ABB , Schneider Electric, and Fuji Electric