Definite purpose contactor

[End]

Ok sorry for the dumb question. I have a 30 amp, 4 pole definite purpose contactor. Square D.
Are these rated for 30amps across each contact, or 30 amps totaled across all 4 poles? Thanks in advance

 

[roger]

Each pole is rated for 30 amps.

Roger

 

[augie47]

Just to make your day more interesting, note that most DP contactors are UR listed and as such are components of listed equipment and are not listed for 'stand alone" installations (although they are often used in that manner)

 

[petersonra]

I would also point out that a similarly rated IEC contactor will work as well and usually be smaller and less expensive.

 

[B4T]

There is also a problem using definite purpose contactors for lighting.. not rated for it I was told..

But.. I have about (50) out in the field controlling lighting circuits before I heard that news..

 

[End]

Thanks for all the help

 

[T.M.Haja Sahib]

There is also a problem using definite purpose contactors for lighting.. not rated for it I was told..

But.. I have about (50) out in the field controlling lighting circuits before I heard that news..

Can AHJ allow it?

 

[Stevareno]

There is also a problem using definite purpose contactors for lighting.. not rated for it I was told..

But.. I have about (50) out in the field controlling lighting circuits before I heard that news..

I have also used definite purpose contactors for lighting and I've never seen an inspector take issue with it.
I can maybe see an argument that the contactor coils aren't rated for continuous duty. All lighting specific contactors I have seen have been mechanically held or 'pulse' controlled.
I may have to take a closer look at the coil ratings next time I get my hands on a contactor.

 

[renosteinke]

"Lighting contactors" are subjected to a huch higher inrush current test. You're not supposed to use 'definite purpose' contactors for incandescent or (especially) HID lighting. Supposedly, the contacts might not last long.

I agree, though .... there are plenty being used as such, and without much trouble. A very common use is to use the contactor to allow a single photo-eye to control many lights. It's also a convenient way to put in a 'test' or 'manual' control.

UL is in the business of testing complete assemblies, rather than the individual parts. Their mark on a component cannot say anything about the finished product.

I have heard of - but not experienced - some inspectors objecting to placing these contactors in pull cans, rather than 'control panels.'

 

[John120/240]

.

I have heard of - but not experienced - some inspectors objecting to placing these contactors in pull cans, rather than 'control panels.'

What is the basis for the objection to contactors in other locations ? Hopefully more than

"That's not the way we do it here"

 

[ptonsparky]

DP contactors also have resistive and inductive ratings so paying attention to what type of load you have may help in the long run. When replacing them never go smaller and bigger won't hurt a thing.

 

[kwired]

I have heard of - but not experienced - some inspectors objecting to placing these contactors in pull cans, rather than 'control panels.'

Once you put a contactor in it - it becomes a control panel.

I can maybe see an argument that the contactor coils aren't rated for continuous duty.

There are many DP contactors in listed equipment that get continuous duty use.

I understand the fact that they may not be tested for use as lighting contactors. I also think it is just stupid if they can't be used as lighting contactors. As has been said they have both resistive and inductive current ratings. Suddenly a light or a motor not installed as part of a piece of listed equipment has different properties than one that is part of listed equipment?