Motor control and switching
Contactors, motor starters and overload relays perform different roles in a motor circuit. Select switching devices by load duty, motor rating, coil supply, contact arrangement and the coordinated protection design.
Browse categoryMotor control and switching products
Compare complete product references and their electrical and installation requirements.
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Motor-control roles
Start with the function required in the circuit, then choose a complete manufacturer order number.
Motor-control collections
Product families appear here as their collection content is published.
Select the load, coil and circuit arrangement
A motor switching device is selected from the application duty and the complete circuit, rather than from current alone.
- 01
Load duty and operating rating
Distinguish resistive switching from motor starting and stopping. Match operational current and motor power at the actual supply voltage and utilization category.
- AC-1 resistive duty
- AC-3 or AC-3e motor duty
- AC-4 inching or plugging has different ratings
- 02
Coil supply and contacts
Match the control voltage and AC/DC coil type separately from the switched power circuit.
- Full coil suffix
- Main-pole arrangement
- Auxiliary NO/NC contacts and control interface
- 03
Protection, coordination and installation
Select overload and short-circuit devices with the contactor and motor circuit. Allow for terminals, conductor size, mounting and enclosure temperature.
- Coordination table and protective-device combination
- Overload setting and trip requirements
- Terminal technology and cabinet clearance
The roles in a motor branch
A typical motor branch combines short-circuit protection, a contactor and overload protection before the motor. The coil receives a separate control supply; the contactor alone does not provide every protective function.
Branch protection
Contactor
Overload protection
Motor
Plan replacement by the complete reference
Retain the installed circuit details and distinguish manufacturer lifecycle from available inventory.
- 01
Record the full MPN, coil voltage, utilization category and installed motor rating.
- 02
Compare terminal positions, dimensions, auxiliaries and the coordinated protection combination.
- 03
Manufacturer phase-out dates do not describe stock quantity or the condition of an individual unit.
Motor control and switching questions
Practical checks for identifying, selecting and replacing controller hardware.
Does a contactor replace overload protection?
No. A contactor switches the load when its coil is operated. Overload and short-circuit protection are separate circuit functions, unless a specifically identified combined device provides them.
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