Siemens 3RT2015-1AP01 Standard Compact AC Contactor 230VAC 7A 3NO

Siemens 3RT2015-1AP01 Standard Compact AC Contactor: Reliable Power Control

The Siemens 3RT2015-1AP01 is a robust, 3-pole standard compact AC contactor designed for reliable switching of power circuits. This unit is engineered for demanding industrial applications, offering a dependable solution for motor control and general power switching tasks. Key advantages include its compact S00 size, ensuring space-saving integration, and a 230VAC control coil voltage for straightforward power supply compatibility. With a rated operational current of 7A at AC-3 and a power rating of 3kW at 400V, it's well-suited for a variety of motor loads and power circuits. The integrated 1 normally open (NO) auxiliary contact provides essential signaling capabilities for system monitoring and control.

Product Specifications

| Feature                       | Specification                                    |

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

| Product Number                | 3RT2015-1AP01                                    |

| Brand                         | Siemens (SIRIUS 3RT2)                            |

| Type                          | Standard Compact AC Contactor                    |

| Poles                         | 3-Pole                                           |

| Rated Operational Current (AC-3) | 7A (at 400V)                                     |

| Rated Power (AC-3)            | 3 kW (at 400V)                                   |

| Control Coil Voltage          | 230 VAC (50/60 Hz)                               |

| Auxiliary Contacts            | 1 NO (Normally Open)                             |

| Terminal Type                 | Screw-clamp connections                          |

| Size                          | S00                                              |

| Mounting                      | DIN rail or panel mounting                       |

| Insulation Voltage (Ui)       | 690 V                                            |

| Rated Impulse Voltage (Uimp)  | 6 kV                                             |

| Degree of Protection (Front)  | IP20                                             |

| Ambient Operating Temperature | -25 to +60 °C                                    |

| Mechanical Service Life       | 30,000,000 operations                            |

| Replacement For               | 3RT1015-1AP01                                    |

| Standards Compliance          | IEC 60947-1, IEC 60947-4-1                         |

Core Features & Market Positioning

The Siemens 3RT2015-1AP01 stands out in the market due to its integration into the modular SIRIUS system, allowing for seamless combination with other components like overload relays and soft starters to create complete motor feeders. This modularity, coupled with its compact design, positions it as a highly versatile and space-efficient solution for control panel builders and system integrators. The contactor's robust construction ensures high reliability and a long mechanical service life of up to 30 million operations, which translates to reduced maintenance costs and increased operational uptime for end-users. Its compatibility with automation levels via ASi or IO-Link further enhances its market appeal in modern industrial environments.

Key Application Scenarios

This Siemens 3RT2015-1AP01 contactor is primarily utilized for the direct on-line (DOL) starting and stopping of three-phase motors, a common requirement across various industries such as manufacturing, HVAC, and material handling. It is also suitable for other switching applications where reliable control of power circuits up to its rated capacity is needed, including lighting systems, heating elements, and auxiliary equipment. The integrated auxiliary contact is crucial for feedback to PLC systems, enabling status monitoring, interlocking, and safety sequences. Its ability to be used in any climate and its touch-safe design (DIN VDE 0106 Part 100) further broaden its application scope.

Practical System Integration Guidance

Integrating the 3RT2015-1AP01 into a control system is straightforward due to its screw-clamp terminals, which provide a secure and reliable connection. For motor control, it is typically wired in series with the motor windings, controlled by the 230VAC coil. The integrated 1 NO auxiliary contact can be wired into a digital input of a PLC to signal when the contactor is energized and the motor is running. For more complex motor starting applications, such as star-delta or reversing starters, additional contactors and control logic would be required, leveraging the modularity of the SIRIUS system. When forming a complete motor starter, it's designed to be combined with Siemens overload relays (e.g., electronic overload relays) to provide overcurrent protection.

Operation and Risk Mitigation

Safe operation of the Siemens 3RT2015-1AP01 relies on adherence to electrical safety standards and proper installation. The IP20 rating indicates protection against solid objects larger than 12.5mm, necessitating enclosure within a control panel to prevent accidental contact with live parts. During operation, the contactor coil requires a stable 230VAC supply. Any voltage fluctuations outside the specified operating range (0.8-1.1 of rated voltage at 50 Hz) can lead to improper operation or failure. Troubleshooting common issues often involves checking the coil voltage, the condition of the main contacts for signs of wear or welding, and the proper function of the auxiliary contact. While specific fault codes are not typically associated with contactors, failure to switch or intermittent operation usually points to coil issues, contact degradation, or external control signal problems.

Scalability & Long-Term Value

The Siemens 3RT2015-1AP01 benefits from its position within the broader SIRIUS 3RT platform, offering significant scalability. For applications requiring higher current ratings or different configurations (e.g., more auxiliary contacts), Siemens provides a range of larger contactor sizes within the same 3RT2 series, ensuring compatibility and a consistent design language throughout the control system. Accessories, such as auxiliary switch blocks (both front and side-mounted), can be added to expand the signaling capabilities beyond the integrated 1 NO contact. Furthermore, the SIRIUS system is designed with integration into modern industrial automation in mind, supporting connectivity to industrial communication networks like ASi and IO-Link, paving the way for integration into IIoT platforms and smart manufacturing environments. This forward-looking design ensures long-term value and adaptability to evolving industrial needs.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: What is the primary function of the Siemens 3RT2015-1AP01?

The Siemens 3RT2015-1AP01 is a power contactor. Its main role is to switch electrical power circuits on and off, typically for controlling electric motors. It uses an electromagnetic coil to operate a set of main contacts.

This contactor is designed for AC circuits and is rated for specific voltage and current loads, making it suitable for motor starting applications. The 230VAC coil voltage specifies the power required to activate the contactor.

It also includes an integrated auxiliary contact, which can be used for signaling purposes, such as confirming the status of the main circuit to a control system.

Q2: What are the key technical specifications of the 3RT2015-1AP01?

This contactor is a 3-pole device with a 7A rating at AC-3 utilization category, suitable for loads up to 3kW at 400V. Its control coil operates at 230VAC. It features one normally open (NO) auxiliary contact.

The unit has a compact S00 size, designed for DIN rail or panel mounting. It boasts an insulation voltage of 690V and a surge voltage resistance of 6kV. The operating temperature range is from -25°C to +60°C.

It is built with screw-clamp terminals for secure connections and offers a mechanical service life of 30 million operations, ensuring durability in industrial environments.

Q3: What types of applications is this Siemens contactor best suited for?

The 3RT2015-1AP01 is ideally suited for direct on-line (DOL) starting of three-phase electric motors up to 3kW. It's also used in general power switching tasks where reliable on/off control is needed.

Its compact size and integrated auxiliary contact make it valuable for control panels where space is limited and feedback signals are required for automation. Applications span across various industries like manufacturing, HVAC, and water treatment.

The contactor's robust design and adherence to IEC standards ensure reliable performance in diverse industrial settings, including those with varying environmental conditions.

Q4: Can the Siemens 3RT2015-1AP01 be used to switch DC loads?

No, the Siemens 3RT2015-1AP01 is specifically designed as an AC contactor. It is rated for AC-3 and other AC utilization categories, meaning its contacts and internal design are optimized for alternating current.

Using this contactor for DC loads is not recommended and could lead to premature failure or unsafe operation. DC loads have different arc extinguishing requirements than AC loads.

For DC switching applications, Siemens offers specific DC contactors or relays designed to safely handle the unique characteristics of direct current.

Q5: How do I wire the Siemens 3RT2015-1AP01 for motor control?

For basic motor control, the three main poles of the 3RT2015-1AP01 are wired in series with the motor windings. The 230VAC control coil is connected to a suitable power source, typically controlled by a start/stop button or a PLC output.

The integrated 1 NO auxiliary contact can be wired to a PLC input to provide a "contactor closed" or "motor running" signal. This allows the control system to monitor the status of the motor.

Always refer to the product's datasheet and relevant electrical codes for proper wiring diagrams and safety precautions to ensure correct installation.

Q6: What is the significance of the "AC-3" rating on this contactor?

The AC-3 rating indicates the contactor's suitability for starting squirrel-cage motors. It means the contactor can repeatedly switch on motors and also break the current during normal motor running.

AC-3 ratings are critical because starting a motor draws a much higher current than its running current. This rating ensures the contactor can handle these high inrush currents without welding its contacts.

While AC-3 is common for motor starting, other AC ratings exist for different load types (e.g., AC-1 for resistive loads, AC-4 for frequent starting/stopping). The 7A at AC-3 rating is key for matching to motor specifications.

Q7: Can I add more auxiliary contacts to the 3RT2015-1AP01?

Yes, the Siemens 3RT2015-1AP01 can be expanded with additional auxiliary contacts. While it comes with one integrated NO contact, Siemens offers auxiliary switch blocks that can be mounted on the front or side.

These accessory blocks allow for configurations with multiple NO and NC (Normally Closed) contacts, providing more signaling and interlocking capabilities for complex control schemes.

This expandability is a key feature of the SIRIUS modular system, enabling customization to meet specific application needs without requiring a larger or different main contactor.

Q8: What is the difference between the 3RT2015-1AP01 and the older 3RT1015-1AP01?

The 3RT2015-1AP01 is a direct, modern replacement for the older 3RT1015-1AP01 model. While they offer similar core functionality and electrical ratings, the 3RT2 series features a more compact design and enhanced integration capabilities within the SIRIUS modular system.

The 3RT2 series also benefits from updated manufacturing processes and potentially improved performance characteristics or compliance with newer standards. Both are 3-pole, 7A, 230VAC coil contactors with screw terminals.

For most applications, the 3RT2015-1AP01 can be used as a direct drop-in replacement for its predecessor, offering improved integration possibilities and a continued commitment to Siemens' SIRIUS platform.

Q9: What is the typical lifespan of the Siemens 3RT2015-1AP01?

The Siemens 3RT2015-1AP01 has a significant mechanical service life of up to 30 million operating cycles. This indicates the number of times the contactor can open and close its contacts without mechanical failure.

The electrical service life, however, depends heavily on the specific application, including the load current, switching frequency, and voltage. For AC-3 motor switching, the electrical life will be considerably less than the mechanical life.

Siemens provides guidelines and FAQs regarding electrical service life calculations, which can be consulted for more precise estimations based on operational parameters.

Q10: Is this contactor suitable for use in hazardous or explosive environments?

No, the standard Siemens 3RT2015-1AP01 is not designed for use in hazardous or explosive environments. Its IP20 protection rating means it is not sealed against dust or moisture ingress and does not offer protection against ignition sources.

For applications in potentially explosive atmospheres (e.g., Zone 1, Zone 2, or Class I, Division 1), specialized explosion-proof or intrinsically safe equipment is required.

Siemens offers specific product lines, such as their 3RT2 series with specific suffixes or other specialized contactors, designed to meet the stringent requirements for hazardous area installations. Always consult the product documentation for suitability in such environments.