How Does a Vacuum Contactor Work?

Vacuum contactors play a crucial role in electric motors and other equipment. Similar to circuit breakers, these devices provide protective intervention when circuits become overloaded. The primary difference between vacuum contactors and circuit breakers is the machine’s current load. Vacuum contactors are designed to work with larger electrical loads. 

Joslyn Clark manufactures several vacuum contactor series, each with its own pros and cons. How does a vacuum contactor work, and what main functions do they perform? 

How Does a Vacuum Contactor Work? 

A basic contactor switches electrical circuits within a mechanism as needed. Where vacuum contactor operating principles enter the picture is in the contactor’s housing. By initiating circuit switches in a vacuum, the switches can happen much more frequently. This makes the technology ideal for higher loads that involve more circuits. 

Current flowing through a vacuum can break much quicker than one moving through air. This principle contributed to the rising popularity of vacuum contactors in the last several decades.  

Vacuum Contactor Applications 

Vacuum contactors can be used in many low- and medium- voltage applications. They’re suitable for 3-phase AC motors in industrial and mining operations. Their enclosed design makes them especially ideal in dirty environments.  

Another advantage to vacuum contactors is their space-saving benefits. These compact devices typically take up less room than their air-break counterparts, which promotes more efficient operation. 

Joslyn Clark vacuum contactors are industry favorites because of the brand’s commitment to quality execution. These devices, made to withstand several operation cycles, can reduce contact bounce using low arc energy. The company’s superiority in this space is why we sell Joslyn Clark products at Power & Controls, Inc. 

We sell various parts for both low and medium voltage. You can shop Joslyn Clark through our comprehensive online store to get the parts you need, or contact us with any additional questions.