A vacuum contactor is a switch that utilizes a vacuum arc extinguishing chamber for arc extinction, designed for frequent connection and disconnection of normal working current. It is commonly used for remote switching of medium and low voltage AC motors with frequent start and stop operations, typically at 6kV, 380V (660V, 1140V).
The contacts of the vacuum contactor are sealed within a vacuum arc extinction chamber, featuring high interrupting and making current capabilities, as well as a high rated operating voltage. As the circuit can only produce a low-energy metal vapor arc, its intensity, arc duration, and erosion on the contacts are all significantly less than in air. Consequently, vacuum switches require no maintenance. From an environmental standpoint, the vacuum switch's contact system is enclosed within a vacuum tube casing, ensuring that the arc produced during contact breaking does not affect the environment, thus allowing it to operate in harsh and adverse working conditions.
