In this test and teardown video, we will learn about the construction of a high power contactor, the difference between AC-1 and AC-3 ratings and enjoy the lovely sound of a contactor closing and breaking! Compare it to this vintage ASEA 630 A / 440 kW contactor: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KTbE3G8mqis
The AF265-40-11-13 is a 4 pole – 1000 V IEC or 600 V UL contactor for controlling motors up to 132 kW / 400 V AC (AC-3) / and switching power circuits up to 400 A (AC-1) or 300 A UL general use. The contactor has a wide control voltage range (100-250 V 50/60 Hz and DC).
The internal construction is very simple. Switching elements are copper bar with hardened platinum wear surfaces. Metal places around the switching chamber acts as arc arrestors, to cool down and quench energy from opening high power inductive loads.
The wide input voltage range is due to the advanced coil driver found inside. 100-250 V at either 50/60 Hz or DC, is only possible with a switch mode power supply. It is impossible to tell the topology, as the electronics are potted in black varnish. There is however great noise and switching transient suppression built into the contactor.
Current and power specifications
Rated Operational Current AC-1 (Ie):
- (1000 V) 40 °C 350 A
- (1000 V) 60 °C 300 A
- (1000 V) 70 °C 240 A
- (690 V) 40 °C 400 A
- (690 V) 60 °C 350 A
- (690 V) 70 °C 290 A
Rated Operational Current AC-3 (Ie):
- (415 V) 55 °C 265 A
- (440 V) 55 °C 265 A
- (500 V) 55 °C 250 A
- (690 V) 55 °C 250 A
- (380 / 400 V) 55 °C 265 A
- (220 / 230 / 240 V) 55 °C 265 A
Rated Operational Power AC-3 (Pe):
- (415 V) 132 kW
- (440 V) 160 kW
- (380 / 400 V) 132 kW
- (220 / 230 / 240 V) 75 kW