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ABB has released a new generation of control gear, including contactors coupling energy saving technology. A feature is the use of ABB’s AC/DC electronic coil technology. Covering both AC and DC voltages between 24…500 V 50/60 Hz and 20…500 V DC, the coil has reduced the number of contactor types by 90%, from 2,500 to just 250 parts making the range easier to specify and stock. With its reduced AC pull-in coil consumption from 30% (for AF) to 80% (for AF…Z), the contactors deliver less losses per phase and generate less heat, enabling users to improve the energy efficiency of their panel systems.
A key benefit of the AF contactor range is its ability to manage the effects of unstable voltage conditions caused by poor network conditions, motor inrush current or voltage drops along cable lengths. As well as extended coil operating limits, the new AF contactors feature built-in surge protection, eliminating the need for an extra surge suppressor and providing added reliability and safety in the event of voltage fluctuations. The new contactors are part of a wider family of new modular motor control and protection devices, which also encompasses manual motor starters, softstarters and relays. ABB’s MS132 manual motor starters, rated from 0.1 to 32A are used to manually activate and deactivate motors up to 15kW / 400 V. Fuse-less protection against short-circuits, overloads and phase failures reduce maintenance time in the event of a failure and enable a compact switchgear cabinet layout, helping save time and money. Other features include overload protection to trip class 10, with short circuit protection Ics up to 50kA at 400V for the MS116 and 100kA at 400V for the MS132. A key safety feature is the inclusion of a lockable rotary handle, with a clear switch position indication showing ON/OFF and TRIP status. Further protection is afforded by the inclusion of an optical signal for magnetic tripping, with fault separation to distinguish between a magnetic or thermal trip condition. These are joined by ABB’s PSR9, PSR25 and PSR37 softstarters for motor currents from 3.9A up to 45A and motor voltages from 208 to 600 V AC. Ideal for pump, fan, mixer and conveyor applications, the softstarters are designed to minimise starting currents and reduce the risk of current spikes in small to medium-sized motors. Capable of handling 10 starts per hour, or 20 where a cooling fan is fitted, the softstarters help minimise the impact of motor starting on the electrical network and prolong the life of mechanical components.
