New electromagnetic contactor

This paper deals with the design concept and test results of the experiment al development phase of a new electromagnetic contactor. The contactor is u sed for making, switching and breaking of apparatuses and devices at voltag e levels up to 1 kV. The use of this contactor will be illustrated in the e xample of a star-delta starter for induction motors. Currently, starters co nsist of three contactors, together with its power-, control- and signal co nnections. An experimental prototype of the new contactor has already been made. Among the tests performed on this prototype are tests for temperature rise limits, dielectric properties and partial tests of mechanical propert ies. The tests of the rated making and breaking capacities have also been e xecuted. After some constructional modifications, the electromagnetic conta ctor has successfully passed all the above mentioned tests. (C) 2001 Elsevi er Science B.V. All rights reserved.