Motor Starter Contactors

Motor starter contactors are electrically operated switching devices used to control the flow of power to electric motors in industrial and commercial applications. RSP Supply carries a full line of IEC and NEMA motor starter contactors from trusted manufacturers, including ABB, Eaton, Schneider Electric, IDEC, and Benshaw. These contactors are designed to safely start and stop motors while handling high electrical loads and minimizing contact wear and electrical arcing.
Using electromagnetic force, motor starter contactors open and close power contacts to control motor operation. When paired with overload relays, they form complete motor starters that protect motors from prolonged overcurrent conditions and overheating. This combination is a foundational element of modern motor control systems, supporting safe operation, equipment protection, and long-term reliability.
IEC and NEMA contactors serve different application needs. IEC contactors are compact and well-suited for space-constrained panels and automated systems, while NEMA contactors are designed for heavier-duty applications and more demanding industrial environments. Auxiliary contacts can be added to either type to provide status indication, control signaling, or integration with automation and safety systems.
FAQs
Q: What is the difference between a contactor and a motor starter?
A contactor switches power to a motor, while a motor starter combines a contactor with an overload relay to provide both control and motor protection.
Q: What is the difference between IEC and NEMA contactors?
IEC contactors are smaller and commonly used in modern automation systems, while NEMA contactors are larger, more rugged, and designed for heavy-duty industrial applications.
Q: Do motor starter contactors provide overload protection?
No, overload protection is provided by a separate overload relay that works in conjunction with the contactor.
Q: Can auxiliary contacts be added to motor starter contactors?
Yes, auxiliary contacts can be added to provide feedback signals, control logic, or safety interlocking functions.
Q: What brands of motor starter contactors does RSP Supply carry?
RSP Supply offers motor starter contactors from ABB, Eaton, Schneider Electric, IDEC, and Benshaw for IEC and NEMA applications.
Why Buy Motor Starter Contactors from RSP Supply
RSP Supply offers a comprehensive selection of IEC and NEMA motor starter contactors from leading manufacturers. Our products support reliable motor control, long service life, and compatibility with modern automation systems. Customers rely on RSP Supply for technical expertise, dependable industrial components, and solutions tailored to a wide range of motor control applications.