Posted to News on 2nd May 2008, 14:18
Solid-state reversing contactors - four functions in one
New from Phoenix Contact is the Contactron family of solid-state contactors. Whereas traditional reversing contactor circuits consist of a reversing contactor combination, a motor protection relay and an additional emergency stop contactor arrangement, the Contactron combines all four function in one compact unit rated to EN 61508 SIL 3, EN 13849-1 Performance Level e and EN 954-1 Safety Category 3.
For motors up to 4kW, the new 22.5mm wide '4 in 1' solid-state reversing contactor makes installation considerably easier and saves up to 75 per cent of the DIN rail space compared with using separate devices. It is claimed that installation time can be reduced by up to 75 per cent, and the price of the Contactron is lower than the total cost of the four separate devices traditionally used.
Furthermore, Phoenix Contact says that a microprocessor-controlled combination of rugged relay technology and wear-free solid-state technology relieves the load on the relay contacts considerably, thereby increasing operating life by at least ten times as against purely electromechanical devices. The Contactron therefore helps to increase machine availability and reduce warranty costs.
Two models are available for three-phase 550V motors, one for 2A per phase, and one for up to 9A per phase.
For more information, visit www.phoenixcontact.co.uk/products/33013_33019.htm.
