Classification of Contactors and Trends in the Development of Electromagnetic Contactors

A general classification of contactors according to the characteristics of the highest and lowest levels is proposed in a form convenient for assessing development trends. The central place in this classification is occupied by the most common electromagnetic contactors intended for use in general industrial equipment, in actively developing systems (facilities) with battery power sources and aerospace engineering. The general global trends in the development of electrical products, which are also inherent in contactors, are noted. The main stages of contactor development and their characteristic features are presented in the form of a diagram of the development of electromagnetic contactors (starters) compiled on the basis of data from Schneider Electric. Due to a number of difficulties, the Russian contactor market is assessed ambiguously and is likely to be determined in the near future by solving specific tasks to ensure the technological independence of the Russian economy, for example, by developing certain types of contactors that are analogues of leading global companies.