The CHNT NCH8 Series Modular AC Contactor is an electrical device designed for remote switching and control circuits in AC power systems. It is primarily used in applications involving non-inductive or low-inductive loads, such as resistance furnaces, domestic appliances, and similar low-inductive loads. The contactor can also be used for household motor loads, though it may require derating in such applications. It is important to note that this contactor is not designed to break short-circuit currents and therefore must be used in conjunction with a suitable short-circuit protector.
Function Description:
The NCH8 series contactor operates by remotely switching and controlling electrical circuits. When the coil control power voltage is applied, the contactor picks up, closing the main contacts and allowing current to flow through the connected load. When the voltage is removed, the contactor releases, opening the contacts and interrupting the circuit. This makes it suitable for applications requiring frequent switching operations. The device is designed for use in AC 50Hz (or 60Hz) power systems with rated operating voltages up to 400V and rated operating currents up to 63A. Its modular design allows for flexible installation and integration into various electrical panels and systems.
Usage Features:
The NCH8 series contactor offers several features that enhance its usability and adaptability:
- Application Versatility: It supports both AC-1/AC-7a application categories for non-inductive/low-inductive loads and AC-7b for household motor loads, providing flexibility across different electrical systems.
- Coil Control Voltage Options: The contactor is available with various coil control power voltages, including 24V, 220V/230V, and 240V, allowing it to be integrated into different control schemes.
- Wide Operation Range: The pick-up voltage range is 85% to 110% of the nominal coil control voltage (Us), and the release voltage range is 20% to 75% of Us, ensuring reliable operation even with minor voltage fluctuations.
- Environmental Adaptability: The contactor is designed to operate within an ambient temperature range of -5°C to +40°C. It can tolerate relative humidity of less than 50% at +60°C and up to 90% at +20°C, and it is suitable for altitudes below 2000m.
- Duty System: It supports 8-hour duty, uninterrupted duty, and intermittent periodic duty, making it suitable for a wide range of operational demands.
- Enclosure Protection: With an IP20 enclosure protection degree, the contactor is protected against solid objects larger than 12.5mm, though it is not protected against water ingress.
- Installation Flexibility: The device is designed for installation on a TH35-7.5 steel mounting rail, which is a standard method for mounting electrical components in control panels. This ensures ease of installation and compatibility with existing infrastructure.
- Wiring Convenience: The contactor is designed for copper wire connections and provides clear guidelines for wire category, sectional area, strip length, and tightening torque. It also allows for connecting up to two wires of the same type and sectional area, simplifying complex wiring setups.
- Pollution Class: Classified as Class 2 for pollution, it is suitable for environments where only non-conductive pollution occurs, except for occasional conductivity caused by condensation.
- Installation Category: The contactor falls under Installation Category II, meaning it is suitable for connection to the mains supply via a plug or similar means, or for loads that are not permanently connected to the mains.
Maintenance Features:
Maintaining the NCH8 series contactor is crucial for ensuring its longevity and reliable performance. The manual outlines specific guidelines for inspection and troubleshooting:
- Regular Inspection: It is recommended to check the operation of the contactor monthly. This involves observing its mechanical movement: it should incline 5° forward upon picking up and 5° backward upon release. Additionally, verifying smooth operation is essential.
- Troubleshooting Guide: The manual provides a comprehensive troubleshooting table to diagnose common issues. This includes:
- No operation or unreliable operation: This could be due to the control power voltage not matching the coil voltage, insufficient operation circuit power capacity, disconnections, or incorrect wiring. Solutions involve using the correct control power voltage and checking circuit connections.
- Coil burnt or jammed mechanical parts: If the coil is burnt or movable mechanical parts are jammed, the product should be replaced.
- Noise during operation: Noise can indicate foreign objects on the polar face of the magnet yoke or armature, or a control power voltage that is too low. Replacing the product or using the correct control power voltage are the recommended actions.
- Contactor does not release or releases slowly: This might be caused by contact welding or stain/dust on the polar face of the iron core. In these cases, the product should be replaced.
- No Disassembly Policy: A critical maintenance instruction is that the product should not be assembled, disassembled, or maintained at will. If the product is damaged, it should be replaced rather than repaired by unauthorized personnel. This ensures safety and maintains the integrity of the device.
- Environmental Protection: For end-of-life disposal, the product and its parts should be handled according to industrial waste treatment processes or sent to a recycling station for proper assortment, dismantling, and recycling, adhering to local regulations. This promotes responsible environmental practices.