New IT contactors and starters offer all 24 V dc control

Milwaukee, Wis.—Focus on 24 V dc for control power expands into new electromechanical contactors and starters just introduced by Eaton Corp.'s Cutler-Hammer business unit. They're part of Phase 2 in an evolving program called Intelligent Technologies (IT ), with the goal to develop various efficient, cost-effective power control products.

By Staff April 1, 2002

Milwaukee, Wis .-Focus on 24 V dc for control power expands into new electromechanical contactors and starters just introduced by Eaton Corp.’s Cutler-Hammer business unit. They’re part of Phase 2 in an evolving program called Intelligent Technologies ( IT ), with the goal to develop various efficient, cost-effective power control products.

The IT. Electro-Mechanical (EM) line consists of microprocessor-based contactors and starters-reversing and non-reversing-which incorporate solid-state overload relay protection. NEMA and IEC-type units are offered, however package size reduction made possible by the low-voltage control is most dramatic in the IEC-type devices.

NEMA models come in sizes 00 to 5, with ratings of 9-270 A continuous and 1.5-200 hp max., at 60 Hz and various supply voltages from 200 to 600 V (3-phase); also 1/3-15 hp at 115/230 V (1-phase). IEC units are available in frame sizes A to F (27-140 mm width), with 3-400 A max. AC-3 rating and 0.75-250 kW max., at 50/60 Hz and supply voltages from 220 to 575 V (3-phase). Current and power ratings will increase as more product sizes are introduced later in 2002.

At the heart of all IT. EM devices is the globally accepted 24 V dc coil. It provides reduced contactor arcing, balanced magnetic field, high contact force, reduced heating, and longer ride-through. Besides allowing smaller enclosures, low-voltage control improves personnel safety and saves on wiring. Users can change the device’s motor-protection level by selecting either Trip Class 10, 20 or 30. This eliminates the need for individual trip class part numbers. For more details on IT. Phase 2 products, visit www.controleng.com (March 18, 2002 Daily News). www.cutler-hammer.com Eaton/Cutler-Hammer