ABB AX185-30-11-80 185A Industrial Contactor 24V AC

The ABB AX185-30-11-80 185A Industrial Contactor is a robust and reliable component engineered for demanding electrical control applications. This contactor distinguishes itself through its high switching capacity, extended electrical life, and compact design, making it an ideal choice for motor control, power distribution, and automation systems across various industrial sectors. Its core advantages lie in its dependable operation under heavy loads and its ability to withstand frequent switching cycles, ensuring long-term performance and minimal downtime. Key technical specifications include a rated operational voltage of 690V AC, a rated operational current of 185A, and a coil voltage of 24V AC. The AX185 series also features a 3-pole configuration with 1 normally open (NO) auxiliary contact and 1 normally closed (NC) auxiliary contact, providing essential control and signaling capabilities.

| Feature               | Specification                               |

| :-------------------- | :------------------------------------------ |

| Product Type          | Industrial Contactor                        |

| Manufacturer          | ABB                                         |

| Model Number          | AX185-30-11-80                              |

| Rated Operational Current (Ie) | 185 A                                       |

| Rated Operational Voltage (Ue) | 690 V AC                                    |

| Coil Voltage          | 24 V AC                                     |

| Number of Poles       | 3                                           |

| Auxiliary Contacts    | 1 NO, 1 NC                                  |

| Mounting Type         | DIN Rail or Screw Mounting                  |

| Terminal Type         | Screw Terminals                             |

| Protection Class      | IP20                                        |

| Operating Temperature | -25°C to +55°C                              |

| Electrical Endurance  | Up to 2 million operations                  |

Core Features & Market Positioning

The ABB AX185-30-11-80 is positioned as a premium industrial contactor, lauded for its superior reliability and performance in harsh environments. ABB's commitment to innovation is evident in the AX185 series' advanced contact material and robust coil design, which contribute to exceptional durability and a significantly extended electrical lifespan. This focus on longevity directly translates to reduced maintenance costs and increased operational efficiency for end-users. Compared to competitors, the AX185-30-11-80 offers a compelling balance of high current handling capabilities within a relatively compact footprint, simplifying panel design and space optimization. Its inclusion of readily accessible auxiliary contacts further enhances its versatility for complex control schemes and monitoring functions.

Key Application Scenarios

The versatility of the ABB AX185-30-11-80 industrial contactor makes it suitable for a wide array of critical applications. It is extensively used in motor starting and control circuits for pumps, fans, compressors, and conveyors within manufacturing plants, mining operations, and water treatment facilities. Its high breaking capacity ensures safe and reliable disconnection of inductive loads, protecting valuable machinery. Furthermore, this contactor is integral to power distribution systems, acting as a main switch or for load shedding in industrial facilities and large commercial buildings. The 24V AC coil voltage is particularly beneficial for systems designed with lower control voltages, enhancing safety and compatibility with existing control panels.

Practical System Integration Guidance

Integrating the ABB AX185-30-11-80 into existing or new control systems is straightforward due to its standard mounting options and clear terminal labeling. The unit can be mounted directly onto a 35mm DIN rail or secured via screw terminals, offering flexibility in panel layout. Wiring the main power circuits involves connecting the incoming power supply to the top terminals and the load to the bottom terminals, ensuring proper phase rotation for three-phase applications. The auxiliary contacts, clearly marked as NO and NC, can be wired into control logic circuits for status feedback, interlocking, or alarm functions. It is crucial to ensure that the control circuit voltage (24V AC) is correctly supplied to the coil terminals (A1 and A2) and that all connections are torqued to the manufacturer's recommended specifications to prevent overheating and ensure secure electrical contact.

Operation and Risk Mitigation

Proper operation of the ABB AX185-30-11-80 ensures safety and longevity. Users must verify that the power supply and control circuit voltages precisely match the contactor's specifications (690V AC operational, 24V AC coil). Overloading the contactor beyond its 185A rating can lead to premature failure and potential hazards. Regular visual inspections for signs of wear, such as discoloration of terminals or casing, and periodic testing of auxiliary contact function are recommended preventative measures. In the event of malfunction, such as failure to energize or de-energize, common troubleshooting steps include checking the control voltage supply, verifying wiring integrity, and ensuring the presence of any required interlocks. Always de-energize the system before performing any maintenance or inspection to mitigate electrical shock risks.

Scalability & Long-Term Value

The ABB AX185-30-11-80 industrial contactor is designed for long-term value and integration into evolving industrial automation landscapes. Its robust construction and high endurance rating minimize the need for frequent replacements, contributing to a lower total cost of ownership. While this specific model is a standalone component, its compatibility with other ABB control and automation products, such as overload relays and circuit breakers, allows for the creation of comprehensive motor control centers. For advanced integration, the contactor can be incorporated into systems managed by PLCs (Programmable Logic Controllers), where its auxiliary contacts provide essential feedback signals for monitoring and control within an IIoT (Industrial Internet of Things) framework, enabling remote diagnostics and predictive maintenance strategies.

FAQs

What are the primary applications for the ABB AX185-30-11-80 contactor?

This contactor is ideal for motor control, including starting and stopping large motors for pumps and fans. It's also used in power distribution systems for switching loads. Its robust design suits demanding industrial environments.

How do I wire the auxiliary contacts on the AX185-30-11-80?

The AX185-30-11-80 has one normally open (NO) and one normally closed (NC) auxiliary contact. Connect these to your control logic for signaling or interlocking functions. Refer to wiring diagrams for specific interlock configurations.

What is the coil voltage of the ABB AX185-30-11-80 and why is it important?

The coil voltage is 24V AC, which is a common and safe control voltage for industrial automation. Matching the coil voltage to your control power supply is crucial for proper operation. Using the incorrect voltage can damage the contactor.

Can the ABB AX185-30-11-80 handle inductive loads?

Yes, this contactor is designed to handle inductive loads, such as motors. Its high breaking capacity ensures reliable switching of these demanding loads. Proper sizing for the specific motor is still essential.

What is the maximum current rating for the AX185-30-11-80?

The rated operational current (Ie) for the ABB AX185-30-11-80 is 185A. It's important not to exceed this rating to ensure the longevity and safety of the contactor and the connected equipment.

How do I mount the ABB AX185-30-11-80 contactor?

This contactor can be mounted on a 35mm DIN rail or directly to a panel using screws. Ensure a secure mounting to prevent vibration-related issues. Adequate ventilation around the contactor is also recommended.

What is the electrical endurance of the AX185-30-11-80?

The AX185-30-11-80 offers a high electrical endurance, rated for up to 2 million operations. This means it can withstand a significant number of switching cycles, reducing replacement frequency.

Does the ABB AX185-30-11-80 come with overload protection?

This contactor itself does not include integrated overload protection. It is typically used in conjunction with an external overload relay for comprehensive motor protection.

What is the operating temperature range for this contactor?

The operating temperature range for the ABB AX185-30-11-80 is from -25°C to +55°C. Operating outside this range can affect performance and lifespan.

How do I troubleshoot a non-operating ABB AX185-30-11-80?

Check the 24V AC control voltage supply to the coil terminals (A1/A2). Verify that no control circuit faults or interlocks are preventing activation. Ensure the main power is also present.