FAQs for Contactors
Frequently Asked Questions
What do the coil voltage codes on Schneider TeSys contactors mean?
The coil voltage is set by the last two characters of the Schneider TeSys catalogue number. B7 is 24 V AC, E7 is 48 V AC, F7 is 110 V AC and M7 is 220 V AC, while a D ending marks a DC coil, so BD is 24 V DC and MD is 220 V DC. The final digit 7 means the coil works on both 50 Hz and 60 Hz, which covers UAE, GCC and African supplies. Confirm the coil code matches your control-circuit voltage before ordering, because an incorrect coil voltage will stop the contactor operating correctly.
How do I size a contactor using the AC-1 and AC-3 ratings?
AC-1 and AC-3 are utilisation categories under IEC 60947-4-1 that describe the load a contactor can switch. AC-1 applies to resistive or lightly inductive loads such as heaters and lighting, where the amp rating is highest. AC-3 applies to squirrel-cage motors, which draw heavy inrush current at start-up, so the AC-3 rating is always lower than the AC-1 rating on the same device. For a motor, size the contactor by its AC-3 current at your operating voltage, never by the AC-1 figure.
Should I choose a 3-pole or a 4-pole contactor?
A 3-pole contactor switches the three phases of a standard three-phase motor or load and is the usual choice for motor control. A 4-pole contactor adds a fourth switched pole, used to switch the neutral or for four-wire changeover and resistive applications. Choose 4-pole only when you need to switch a neutral or a fourth conductor, as a 3-pole contactor covers most motor and power-switching duties.
Can I add auxiliary contacts, timers or overload relays to these contactors?
Yes, Schneider TeSys and ABB AF contactors accept a range of add-on accessories including auxiliary contact blocks, time-delay blocks, mechanical latches and thermal or electronic overload relays. Auxiliary and timing blocks clip onto the front or side of the contactor, while an overload relay mounts directly beneath it to build a complete motor starter. Send our engineers the contactor part number and we will confirm the matching accessories and overload range for your motor.
Are these genuine Schneider Electric and ABB contactors?
Yes, Electrical Junction supplies genuine Schneider Electric TeSys and ABB AF series contactors sourced through established supply channels. Every order can be checked for coil voltage and rating compatibility by our Dubai-based engineering team before dispatch, and walk-in buyers can inspect stock in person at our trade counter in Deira, Dubai.
Do you help with SASO and SABER certification for contactors shipped to Saudi Arabia?
Yes, Electrical Junction assists with the SASO and SABER certification and conformity documentation required to clear contactors into Saudi Arabia. We ship regularly from our Dubai stock to Riyadh, Dammam and across the Kingdom, and our engineers support KSA export enquiries and the conformity process directly. Send us your part numbers and quantities for a delivered quotation to Saudi Arabia.