Siemens 3RT2026-1AP00 Standard High Current AC Contactor 230VAC 25A 3NO

The Siemens 3RT2026-1AP00 is a high-performance, 3-pole AC contactor designed for demanding industrial applications. This S0-sized device offers a rated operational current of 25A at AC-3 utilization category and a power rating of 11kW at 400V. Its robust construction and reliability make it a cornerstone in motor control and power switching circuits. Featuring a 230VAC coil voltage and integrated 1NO + 1NC auxiliary contacts, the 3RT2026-1AP00 provides essential functionality for control and signaling. Its screw terminals ensure secure connections, and its compatibility within the Siemens SIRIUS modular system facilitates seamless integration into larger control panels and systems. This contactor is engineered for durability, with a mechanical service life of up to 10 million operations, ensuring long-term operational efficiency and reduced maintenance.

Product Specifications

| Feature                     | Specification                                       |

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

| Manufacturer Part Number    | 3RT2026-1AP00                                       |

| Brand                       | Siemens                                             |

| Product Series              | SIRIUS 3RT2                                         |

| Type                        | Power Contactor                                     |

| Poles                       | 3-Pole                                              |

| Rated Operational Current   | 25A (AC-3 at 400V)                                  |

| Rated Power                 | 11 kW (at 400V AC-3)                                |

| Coil Voltage                | 230V AC, 50 Hz                                      |

| Auxiliary Contacts          | 1 Normally Open (NO) + 1 Normally Closed (NC)       |

| Terminal Type               | Screw Terminal                                      |

| Size                        | S0                                                  |

| Mounting                    | DIN rail / Surface mounting                         |

| Mechanical Service Life     | 10,000,000 operations                               |

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

| Degree of Protection        | IP20                                                |

| Compliance                  | IEC 60947-1, UL/CSA, IE3/IE4 ready                  |

Core Features & Market Positioning

The Siemens 3RT2026-1AP00 stands out in the industrial market due to its inherent reliability and integration within the comprehensive SIRIUS modular system. This contactor is designed for high switching frequencies and demanding loads, positioning it as a preferred choice for original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) and system integrators requiring dependable motor control solutions. Its IE3/IE4 readiness highlights Siemens' commitment to energy efficiency, a key differentiator in today's industrial landscape. The inclusion of integrated auxiliary contacts simplifies wiring and reduces the need for external components, further enhancing its competitive advantage by lowering installation costs and panel space requirements. Compared to older series like the 3RT1, the 3RT2 series offers enhanced performance and adaptability, ensuring it remains a relevant and efficient solution for modern automation tasks.

Key Application Scenarios

This Siemens 3RT2026-1AP00 contactor is ideally suited for a wide array of industrial applications, primarily focusing on the safe and reliable switching of motors and high-power loads. Its AC-3 rating makes it particularly effective for starting and stopping three-phase squirrel-cage motors, commonly found in pumps, fans, compressors, and conveyors across manufacturing, processing, and building automation sectors. The integrated auxiliary contacts are invaluable for interlocking circuits, preventing simultaneous operation of opposing motors (e.g., in reversing applications), and for providing status feedback to control systems or human-machine interfaces (HMIs) in applications like factory automation. Furthermore, it can be employed in switching resistive loads or lighting circuits where its 25A rating and 400V capability are appropriate.

Practical System Integration Guidance

Integrating the Siemens 3RT2026-1AP00 into existing or new control systems is streamlined due to its design within the SIRIUS modular ecosystem. Installation typically involves mounting the contactor onto a standard 35mm DIN rail or via surface mounting screws. Wiring is facilitated by the screw-clamp terminals, which offer a secure and robust connection for power and control circuits. For example, the main power terminals (L1, L2, L3 and T1, T2, T3) connect to the motor and the power supply, while the coil terminals (A1, A2) are connected to the 230V AC control voltage source. The integrated auxiliary contacts (1 NO and 1 NC) can be wired into control logic for feedback or interlocking functions. Siemens also offers a range of accessories, such as auxiliary switch blocks, surge suppressors, and connection modules, which are standardized across various SIRIUS sizes, simplifying wiring efforts and enhancing system flexibility.

Operation and Risk Mitigation

Proper operation of the Siemens 3RT2026-1AP00 involves ensuring it is correctly wired to the intended load and control circuit, and that the control voltage applied to the coil (230V AC) matches the specifications. Overload protection, typically provided by a separate thermal overload relay or electronic overload relay (like the Siemens 3RU2126 or 3RB3026 series), is critical to prevent motor damage due to excessive current. Users should be aware that the main contacts are rated for AC-3 duty, meaning they are designed for switching motor loads and not for continuous current under all conditions, especially at higher voltages where the current rating decreases. The IP20 rating indicates protection against solid objects larger than 12.5mm, but not against water; therefore, the contactor must be installed in an enclosure to protect against environmental factors and prevent accidental contact, especially given the mains voltage. Siemens also provides comprehensive documentation regarding safety characteristics and failure rates (B10 values) for its SIRIUS products, which is essential for risk assessments.

Scalability & Long-Term Value

The Siemens 3RT2026-1AP00 offers significant long-term value through its scalability and compatibility within the broader SIRIUS modular system. Its design allows for the addition of auxiliary contact blocks, surge suppressors, and communication modules (e.g., for ASi or IO-Link), enabling adaptation to evolving system requirements or advanced functionalities such as remote monitoring and diagnostics. This modularity ensures that control panels can be easily expanded or reconfigured without requiring a complete overhaul of the contactor base unit. Furthermore, the 3RT2 series is designed to be backward compatible with previous SIRIUS generations where applicable, and its IE3/IE4 readiness ensures compliance with current and future energy efficiency standards, maximizing the return on investment and minimizing the total cost of ownership throughout its operational life.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: What is the primary function of the Siemens 3RT2026-1AP00?

The Siemens 3RT2026-1AP00 is a power contactor. Its main purpose is to switch electrical loads, especially electric motors, on and off. It acts as a heavy-duty remote-controlled switch.

This device is essential for motor control circuits, allowing for safe and reliable starting and stopping. It is rated for AC-3 duty, suitable for squirrel-cage motors.

It can also be used for switching other types of loads within its specified current and voltage limits. This includes lighting or heating circuits.

Q2: What are the key technical specifications of the 3RT2026-1AP00?

This contactor has a 3-pole configuration and a rated operational current of 25A (AC-3). Its power rating is 11kW at 400V AC.

The coil voltage required for operation is 230V AC at 50Hz. It comes with integrated auxiliary contacts: one normally open (NO) and one normally closed (NC).

The size is S0, and it features screw terminals for secure electrical connections. It is designed for DIN rail or surface mounting.

Q3: Where can the Siemens 3RT2026-1AP00 be applied in industrial settings?

This contactor is widely used for controlling three-phase electric motors in various industrial machinery. Applications include pumps, fans, compressors, and conveyor systems.

It is also suitable for general load switching in factory automation, control panels, and building management systems. Its robust design ensures reliability in demanding environments.

The integrated auxiliary contacts are useful for interlocking, signaling, and control feedback loops within these automated systems.

Q4: What are the advantages of using the Siemens SIRIUS 3RT2 series contactors?

The SIRIUS 3RT2 series offers high contact reliability and long mechanical service life. They are designed for energy efficiency and are IE3/IE4 ready.

Integration is simplified due to the modular SIRIUS system, allowing for easy addition of accessories like auxiliary switches or communication modules. Compact design saves panel space.

They are approved worldwide (IEC, UL/CSA) and climate-proof, ensuring usability in diverse conditions.

Q5: How is the 3RT2026-1AP00 installed and wired?

Installation typically involves mounting on a 35mm DIN rail or direct surface mounting. Screw terminals are used for connecting power and control wiring.

The coil terminals (A1/A2) connect to the 230V AC control circuit. Main terminals connect to the motor and power supply. Auxiliary contacts wire into control logic.

Ensure proper wiring practices and consult the manual for detailed diagrams and safety precautions.

Q6: What type of protection is needed for motor circuits using this contactor?

Motor circuits using the 3RT2026-1AP00 require overload protection. This is typically provided by a separate thermal overload relay or electronic overload relay.

These relays are often coordinated with the contactor and motor to ensure safe operation. They protect the motor from damage due to overcurrent or phase loss.

The specific overload relay selected should match the motor's full-load current and the contactor's rating.

Q7: Can I add more auxiliary contacts to the 3RT2026-1AP00?

Yes, additional auxiliary contacts can be added to the Siemens 3RT2026-1AP00. This is achieved by attaching auxiliary switch blocks to the front or side of the contactor.

Siemens offers a variety of auxiliary switch blocks, providing different combinations of NO and NC contacts. This expands the signaling and control capabilities.

These add-on blocks are part of the SIRIUS modular system and are designed for easy, tool-less attachment.

Q8: What is the difference between AC-1 and AC-3 ratings for this contactor?

AC-1 rating (e.g., 40A at 400V) is for general industrial loads, like resistive heaters. It is a less demanding duty cycle.

AC-3 rating (25A at 400V) is specifically for switching electric motors during starting. This involves higher inrush currents and is a more critical application.

The 3RT2026-1AP00 is primarily rated for AC-3 duty, indicating its suitability for motor control.

Q9: Is the 3RT2026-1AP00 compatible with industrial communication protocols?

Yes, the 3RT2026-1AP00 is part of the SIRIUS modular system, which supports integration with industrial communication protocols. This can be achieved using optional communication modules.

Modules for ASi (Actuator Sensor Interface) or IO-Link are available. These allow the contactor status to be monitored and controlled remotely via an industrial network.

This connectivity is crucial for modern IIoT (Industrial Internet of Things) applications and smart factory environments.

Q10: What is the mechanical durability of the 3RT2026-1AP00?

The Siemens 3RT2026-1AP00 has a high mechanical service life. It is rated for typically 10,000,000 switching operations without a load.

With electronically optimized auxiliary switch blocks, the mechanical life of the contactor itself can reach up to 5,000,000 operations.

This extended durability ensures long-term reliability and reduces the frequency of replacements in high-cycle applications.