A contactor, contactor switch or contactor relay is a device designed for switching an electrical circuit on or off. They are part of the relay family, but the main difference is that a contactor is used in applications with higher current capacity is involved. Contactors are typically used for motors, lighting circuits, heating, and other electrical loads. A contactor can function on its own or as a power control device or as part of a motor starter. You can find out more in our comprehensive contactors guide.

RS offer a comprehensive range of high-quality electrical contactors from industry-leading brands including Schneider Electric, Siemens, Eaton, ABB, and Allen Bradley. We also stock a selection of accessories used to enhance the function of the contactor including, Contactor Overload Relays, auxiliary contacts, mechanical interlocks, and much more.

How do contactors work?

Contactors, unlike standard relays, are specifically designed to connect to high current load devices. Used in larger-scale control circuit applications, a contactor is a switch that can be controlled remotely, specifically designed to switch a large amount of electrical power through its contacts. If a device can switch more than 10 amperes, it is called a contactor. These devices also feature high coil voltages which are rare within relays.

Browse Contactors by Type

There are various types of contactors, and each type will have its own set of specifications depending on your application. Some key specifications are:-

• AC Contactor or DC Contactor with coils including 12 V, 24 V, 48 V, 110 V, 240 V, 400 V, and 440 V.
• Reversing or non-reversing functionality.
• AC3 and AC1 categories.
• Single pole contactors, 2 pole contactors, 3 poles 4 poles, and even 8 and 10 pole variants.
• Lightening Contactors.
• Safety Contactors.
• IEC standards.