Difference between breaker and contactor

A breaker and a contactor are both electrical devices used to control the flow of electrical current in a circuit, but they serve different purposes and have distinct characteristics.

Breaker:

A breaker, also known as a circuit breaker, is an automatic device designed to protect an electrical circuit from overcurrents, short circuits, and ground faults. Its primary function is to interrupt the flow of electrical current in the event of an overload or fault, thereby preventing damage to the circuit or equipment.

Key characteristics of a breaker:

  1. Automatic operation: Breakers trip (open) when an overcurrent or fault is detected.
  2. Resettable: Breakers can be reset once the fault is cleared.
  3. Designed to interrupt high currents: Breakers are designed to interrupt high currents quickly and safely.
  4. Typically used in residential and commercial applications.

Contactor:

A contactor, also known as an electrical contactor, is an electrical switch that is used to control the flow of electrical current in a circuit. Its primary function is to switch the circuit on and off, or to control the flow of current in a specific direction.

Key characteristics of a contactor:

  1. Manual or automatic operation: Contactors can be operated manually or automatically through a control signal.
  2. Non-resettable: Contactors do not have a built-in reset mechanism; they must be manually reset or replaced.
  3. Designed for low to medium currents: Contactors are typically designed for low to medium currents and are not suitable for high-current applications.
  4. Typically used in industrial and commercial applications, such as motor control, lighting control, and power distribution.

Key differences:

  1. Purpose: Breakers are designed to protect a circuit from overcurrents and faults, while contactors are designed to control the flow of current in a circuit.
  2. Operation: Breakers operate automatically, while contactors can be operated manually or automatically.
  3. Resetability: Breakers are resettable, while contactors are not.
  4. Current rating: Breakers are designed to interrupt high currents, while contactors are designed for low to medium currents.
  5. Application: Breakers are commonly used in residential and commercial applications, while contactors are typically used in industrial and commercial applications.

In summary, while both breakers and contactors are used to control electrical current, they serve different purposes and have distinct characteristics. Breakers are designed to protect a circuit from overcurrents and faults, while contactors are designed to control the flow of current in a circuit.