Contactor VS Circuit Breaker: What’s The Difference

If you want to understand the circuit breaker and the contactor, then you must understand that the main difference between the circuit breaker and the contactor is that the contactor is controlled by an electrical switch that connects the load and the power supply.

In the case of a circuit breaker, this is an electrical protection device that disconnects the load from the power source when a fault occurs. Let us learn more about the interesting topic of contactors vs circuit breakers.

1. Definition and basic information of circuit breakers and contactors

Circuit breaker

There are different types of circuit breakers and their structures are also different.

However, the general and common problem of circuit breakers is that it consists of multiple movable and fixed contacts, similar to electrical contactors, but they are usually physically contacted by pneumatic and mechanical pressure or electromagnetic accessories.

Circuit breakers have voltage and current sensing circuits that are missing from contactors. This is because the circuit breaker is automatically operated, and when a fault occurs, it can work on its own.

Contactor

The contactor is simpler than the circuit breaker and has several contacts. Many of them are movable, while others are fixed. This is to ensure service when the electromagnet attracts it.

The contactor has an electromagnetic coil that operates at low current and low voltage. Therefore, when control is applied to the coil, the movable part contacts the fixed contact and connects the load to the power source.

2. The working principle of circuit breakers and contactors

Working principle of circuit breaker

The working principle of the circuit breaker is composed of two fixed and movable metal contacts. In addition, it has an operating coil. Under normal circumstances, when the circuit is closed, the contacts are in contact with each other and allow current to flow.

The moving contacts are assembled with the help of mechanical pressure or compressed air. For example, the pressure on the moving contact is obtained from the energy stored in the mechanism. When an overload occurs, the coil is charged with the potential energy, and a plunger is used for the moving contact of the system.

This will re-evaluate the stored energy and separate the contacts. After separation, the internal circuit of the circuit breaker is disconnected and the current flow is interrupted. This can protect the system from damage.

In addition, the understanding of the arc method is also very important. When current passes through the gap, the plasma discharge is called an arc. This may also happen to the wires of a house, but it will happen to the circuit breaker operation.

This may damage the system, and if the arc is not managed, it may cause a fire. Therefore, the mechanism of the circuit breaker is to control and prevent damage as much as possible.

Contactor working principle

The working principle of the contactor is to generate an electric current in the place where the coil is attached through an electromagnetic field. Then the moving contact is pushed to the front, and then an electromagnet is used to generate force to fix the fixed and moving contacts together.

When the power is off, the contactor coil returns to the solenoid coil and the previous position, and no current flows in the circuit. If the AC contactor is energized, then a small part of the coil is shaded. A magnetic flux delay occurs in this location.

This is an average effect to prevent core buzzing in two lines. This also includes the internal dumping section to ensure fast action so that the contactor can be quickly closed and opened. From the power source that provides the switch, that is, the moment the switch is turned on, current flows through the coil of the contactor and attracts the moving center.

The contactor connected to the motion center is closed and the motor starts immediately. When the switch is turned off, the electromagnetic field returns to its original position, and the power supply is immediately cut off.

3. Operation difference between circuit breaker and contactor

They differ in terms of functionality. The difference between contactors and circuit breakers has always been a hot issue for engineers and students. Let’s explore the difference between the two.

Electric contactor

The main function of the contactor is to add load and current, which should be high voltage. The contactor also has advantages because it is constructed to release and close quickly. When you need to control or switch to high voltage and low voltage, you need to move the contactor.

Breaker

On the other hand, when a short circuit or overload occurs, the function of the circuit breaker is to automatically disconnect the current supply. Experts can manually operate the circuit breaker and connect it to the power contacts.

Therefore, in the normal phase, this system works as a switch. Other important differences between contactors and circuit breakers:

  • The electronic contactor is a simple switching device, while the circuit breaker is a protection system. The main function of the contactor is to control the power supply. The circuit breaker plays a protective role.
  • The contactor is working properly. But the circuit breaker only works when it fails.
  • The contactor requires medium voltage. On the other hand, circuit breakers require high voltage.
  • Using a contactor means there will be more flashes and flickers. The other one is completely impossible.
  • The contactor is not made for automation. The other can automatically start and stop when the system fails.
  • The working principle of the electromagnetic system is to establish a connection between the movable contact and the fixed contact. In the case of mechanical and electromagnetic circuit breakers, pressure is required to establish the connection between the movable contact and the fixed contact.
  • The contactor has no arc quenching device. But the current circuit breaker and the high voltage circuit breaker have the same function.
  • There is no voltage sensing system in the contactor. The circuit breaker has current and voltage sensing components.

4. Conclusion

Check out the discussion of contactors and circuit breakers in this article, and you will understand the functions of these two systems and how to use them. For more information, you can ask a well-known electrical mechanic.

Share:

More Posts

Send Us A Message

A man Testing the Timer Relay
Time Switch Guide

How to Test Timer Relay for Optimal Performance

Are you working with time relays in your industry? If …

Time Delay Relay
Time Switch Guide

How Does a Time Delay Relay Work?

What are time delay relays? How does a time delay …

24-Hour Mechanical Timer Switch
Time Switch Guide

24-Hour Mechanical Timer Switch Instructions and Tip

Welcome to the world of precise time control. With a …

A person Install a Programmable Timer Switch for Outdoor Lights
Time Switch Guide

How to Install a Programmable Timer Switch for Outdoor Lights

Enhancing the functionality and energy efficiency of your outdoor lighting …

A factory that uses a mechanical timer switch
Time Switch Guide

Mechanical Timer Switch: The Analog Timer’s Role in Industrial Automation

Precision and timing.    These are two critical components that …

TB388 Timer Box For Pool
Time Switch Guide

Everything You Need To Know About A Pool Timer

Whether you have a traditional dial or a digital interface, …