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Electromechanical components

1- to 6-pole uni- and bidirectional DC and AC power contactors

13. March 2025

Multi-Pole, Modular, and Compact Switching Devices for Modern Power Converters

With the CF series, Schaltbau introduces a highly modular switching device concept to the market. Variants with 1 to 6 main contacts are available, which can be individually configured as normally open (NO) or normally closed (NC) contacts as needed. Mixed configurations are also possible. The contact system is suitable for DC with full bidirectionality as well as for AC up to 400 Hz, allowing for flexible implementation of various requirements.

High switching functionality and reliability enable practical and cost-effective operation. The patented, exclusively permanent-magnetic arc treatment allows for a compact design, saving space and reducing weight. The combination of innovative technology, compactness, and versatility makes the CF series particularly suitable for railway and industrial applications.

Thanks to its unique modularity, the product family includes a wide range of variants tailored to a broad range of applications.

Features

Innovative Design

  • Newly developed, innovative switching chambers: These can be configured as NO, NC, or changeover contacts. A mixed configuration of NO and NC contacts is also possible.
  • Effective arc treatment – no critical current range and minimal wear on the main contact system thanks to permanent-magnetic blowout.
  • Mono- and bistable drives available. Bistable drives require energy only for the switching process, reducing power loss and heat generation.

Modular, Compact, and Low Total Cost of Ownership (TCO)

  • Compact dimensions – high power range
  • Minimal width, depth, and height for this performance class. The shorter "S" versions have one drive, while the longer "W" versions feature two drives.
  • 3,000 V / 400 A max., DC uni-/bidirectional, AC up to 400 Hz. The rated insulation voltage is up to 3,600 V.
  • Application-dependent, innovative arc chamber design with ceramic, plastic, or metal arc extinguishing elements.
  • The modern arc chamber design is optimized for different applications, allowing for efficient arc chamber inserts with ceramic, plastic, or metal extinguishing elements

Low Energy Consumption and Minimal Heat Generation Thanks to Advanced Coil Economy Circuit

  • The pull-in behavior is controlled by a PWM controller, independent of coil voltage and temperature, ensuring reliable and bounce-free switching.
  • During the holding phase, the PWM controller regulates the coil current, significantly reducing power consumption and heat generation.
  • This also increases the reliability of the contactor.

Applications

Power contactor for railway vehicles, DC up to 3,000 volts

  • Main contactor for traction inverters
  • Main contactor for auxiliary converters (HBU)
  • Battery main contactor in hybrid or battery-electric vehicles

Switching device for various mobile and stationary applications, DC up to 3,000 volt

  • Locomotives and multiple-unit trains
  • Photovoltaics, wind power, cranes, welding systems, mining

Contactor for AC applications up to 3,000 volts

  • Switching of permanent magnet traction motors (3 AC, 400 Hz)
  • Activation of braking choppers in DC drives
  • Starters, compressors, motors, and PV systems

Switching device for configuring electrical systems, DC or AC up to 3,000 volts

  • Selection of multiple power source
  • Configuration of filters in multi-system operation
  • Connecting/disconnecting DC intermediate circuits

For more information, please contact us.

CF Contactor Catalog – Schaltbau