noisy contactors

[buck33k]

Lighting contactors mounted directly to the back of a metal enclosure can be noisy.

I was wondering if there were methods others used to dampen the vibration, which can be loud.

Buck

 

[dcl34769]

I have mounted them on a plywood backboard.

 

[triphase]

Try rubber washers between the contactors and metal box or use a Cantex / PVC box to contain the contactors. (The coil is grounded)

 

[LarryFine]

Another suggestion: when asked about a noisy contactor, I noticed that the cross-piece of the armature had a pivot so it could meet the core squarely.

If the pivot stiffens up, the relay hums quite loudly, as it does if you try to pry it from the coil. The solution: a spritz of WD-40 and a bit of loosening.

 

[ramdiesel3500]

Try replacing the contactor with a standard safety switch. They are real quiet!

What?... Oh, okay I'll shut up and go stand in the corner now!

Seriously, how about a mechanically held contactor? Just another idea to consider!

Good luck!

(edited for clarity)