Siemens 3RT2317-2BB40 AC Contactor with Auxiliary Accessories 24VDC 22A 4NO

The Siemens 3RT2317-2BB40 is a robust, 4-pole AC contactor designed for reliable switching of industrial loads. This specific model features a 24V DC coil and 4 normally open (NO) contacts, making it suitable for applications requiring positive isolation. With a rated operational current of 22A at AC-1 (400V/40°C) and a 5.5kW rating at AC-3 (400V), it offers significant capacity for its compact size S00. The contactor is engineered for high electrical durability, rated for 500,000 operations under load. Its spring-type terminals ensure secure, vibration-proof connections, simplifying installation and maintenance. This device is a component of the versatile SIRIUS modular system, allowing seamless integration with other Siemens industrial components.

Product Specifications

| Feature                         | Specification                                    |

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

| Product Number                  | 3RT2317-2BB40                                    |

| Brand                           | Siemens                                          |

| Product Series                  | SIRIUS 3RT2                                      |

| Type                            | AC Contactor                                     |

| Poles                           | 4-pole                                           |

| Number of NO Contacts           | 4 NO                                             |

| Rated Operational Current (AC-1) | 22A (690Vac; 40°C)                |

| Rated Operational Current (AC-3) | 12A (400Vac)                           |

| Rated Active Power (AC-3)       | 5.5kW (400Vac)                      |

| Control Coil Voltage            | 24V DC                                           |

| Terminal Type                   | Spring-type terminals                            |

| Size                            | S00                                              |

| Rated Insulation Voltage        | 690 V                               |

| Rated Impulse Voltage           | 6 kV                                |

| Electrical Durability           | 500,000 operations                  |

| Mechanical Durability           | 30,000,000 operations               |

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

| Degree of Protection            | IP20                                             |

| Mounting                        | DIN rail, Surface mounting                       |

| Dimensions (Net Width)          | 45 mm                               |

| Replaces                        | 3RT1317-2BB40                       |

Core Features & Market Positioning

The Siemens 3RT2317-2BB40 stands out in the industrial contactor market due to its compact S00 size combined with a high switching capacity for AC-1 loads. Its primary advantage lies in the four normally open (NO) contacts, offering flexible circuit configurations and positive breaking. The integration of spring-type terminals is a significant differentiator, providing maintenance-free, vibration-proof connections that reduce installation time and increase reliability compared to traditional screw terminals. This contactor is part of the broader SIRIUS system, which is renowned for its product coordination, allowing for straightforward combination with other SIRIUS components like overload relays and circuit breakers to create complete motor feeders. Its global approvals, including IEC, UL, and CSA, underscore its suitability for diverse international markets, positioning it as a reliable and versatile choice for OEMs and system integrators. The high electrical durability of 500,000 operations under load ensures a long service life, contributing to lower total cost of ownership.

Key Application Scenarios

This Siemens 3RT2317-2BB40 AC contactor is ideally suited for a variety of industrial control applications where reliable switching of resistive loads is paramount. Its configuration with four NO contacts makes it highly effective in scenarios requiring multiple parallel switching paths or when used as a master control relay for interposing multiple control signals. Common applications include the control of heating elements, lighting circuits, and general power distribution in manufacturing plants, building automation systems, and process industries. The 24V DC coil voltage is particularly well-suited for integration into low-voltage control systems, often found in PLC-driven automation setups. Its ability to handle 22A at AC-1 makes it a robust solution for direct on/off switching of moderately powered equipment where high inrush currents are not a primary concern.

Practical System Integration Guidance

Integrating the Siemens 3RT2317-2BB40 into an industrial control system is streamlined by its design features. The spring-type terminals facilitate rapid wiring, eliminating the need for specialized tools and ensuring consistent connection quality, even in environments prone to vibration. When incorporating this contactor into a load feeder, it's crucial to ensure proper coordination with protective devices, such as fuses or circuit breakers, rated appropriately for AC-1 duty and the specific circuit current. For example, for Type 1 coordination, a gG fuse of 35A is recommended, while for Type 2 coordination, a 20A gG fuse is advised. The contactor's compatibility with the SIRIUS system allows for easy pairing with auxiliary switches (e.g., 3RH29 series) that can be mounted on the front or side to expand its control and signaling capabilities. Wiring diagrams for common applications can be found in Siemens' product documentation and application guides.

Operation and Risk Mitigation

Operating the Siemens 3RT2317-2BB40 requires adherence to standard industrial electrical safety practices. Ensure power is isolated before performing any wiring or maintenance. The contactor's IP20 degree of protection indicates it should be installed within an enclosure to prevent accidental contact with live parts. For troubleshooting, common issues may involve coil not energizing (check control voltage supply and wiring integrity) or contacts failing to switch (verify load conditions against contactor ratings and inspect for wear or contamination). The contactor's durability is high, but eventual wear is expected; monitoring contact resistance can indicate a need for replacement. In critical applications, the use of appropriate safety relays and interlocks in conjunction with the contactor is essential for mitigating risks associated with unexpected equipment startup or failure.

Scalability & Long-Term Value

The Siemens 3RT2317-2BB40 offers excellent long-term value and scalability within the SIRIUS ecosystem. Its modular design allows for the easy addition of auxiliary switch blocks to expand its functionality for signaling or interlocking purposes without significantly increasing the physical footprint. While this specific model is not designed for direct communication module integration, it can be part of larger automated systems controlled via PLCs, which can monitor its status and performance. The contactor's robust construction and high mechanical and electrical endurance ensure a long operational lifespan, reducing the frequency of replacements and associated downtime. Its compatibility with a wide range of existing SIRIUS components ensures that control panel designs can be easily scaled or updated as system requirements evolve.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: What is the primary application for the Siemens 3RT2317-2BB40?

The Siemens 3RT2317-2BB40 is primarily used for switching resistive loads (AC-1) in industrial applications. This includes controlling heating elements, lighting systems, and general power circuits where high inrush currents are not a significant factor. Its four normally open (NO) contacts offer flexibility in circuit design, allowing for parallel switching or interposing multiple control signals.

This contactor's design makes it suitable for applications requiring reliable on/off switching with a 24V DC control voltage. It is a key component in motor control centers and control panels for various manufacturing and process industries, ensuring robust power distribution.

Its versatility is enhanced by its integration into the Siemens SIRIUS modular system, enabling straightforward combination with other components for comprehensive load feeder solutions.

Q2: What are the advantages of using spring-type terminals on this contactor?

Spring-type terminals offer a significant advantage in terms of installation speed and reliability. They eliminate the need for manual screw tightening, reducing the risk of loose connections due to vibration. This maintenance-free connection ensures consistent contact pressure over time, contributing to the overall operational stability of the system.

Furthermore, spring terminals are ideal for environments where vibration is common, such as on mobile equipment or in heavy industry. They provide a secure and reliable electrical connection without the need for periodic re-tightening, which is a common maintenance task with screw terminals.

This feature contributes to a lower total cost of ownership by reducing installation labor and minimizing potential downtime caused by connection failures.

Q3: Can this contactor be used for motor control applications?

While the Siemens 3RT2317-2BB40 is rated for AC-1 loads, its AC-3 rating is 12A at 400V, corresponding to a 5.5kW motor at 400V. This means it can be used for switching motors, but it is specifically optimized for AC-1 resistive loads. For applications demanding higher switching capacities or specialized motor starting duty (like AC-3, AC-4), other contactors within the SIRIUS range might be more suitable.

When using this contactor for motor control, it is essential to select the correct size based on the motor's power rating and the specific duty cycle. Over-specification for AC-1 applications ensures sufficient thermal capacity and contact life, even if the motor's AC-3 rating is lower.

Always consult the Siemens SIRIUS catalog and application guides to ensure proper selection and application of contactors for motor control to meet safety and performance requirements.

Q4: What auxiliary accessories are compatible with the 3RT2317-2BB40?

The 3RT2317-2BB40 is compatible with various auxiliary accessories from the Siemens SIRIUS range, primarily front-mounting auxiliary switch blocks. Examples include the 3RH2911-2XA11-0MA0, which provides 1 NO + 1 NC contact, or the 3RH2911-2NL40 for 4 NO contacts. These accessories can be easily attached to the front of the contactor to expand its signaling capabilities or interlocking functions.

Other accessories, such as surge suppressors or early make auxiliary contacts, may also be available, depending on specific system requirements. It is important to verify compatibility with the exact accessory part number against the 3RT23 series specifications.

These additions enhance the contactor's functionality, allowing it to integrate more effectively into complex control logic and safety circuits.

Q5: What is the operational lifespan of this contactor?

The Siemens 3RT2317-2BB40 boasts a significant electrical durability of 500,000 operations under load. This figure represents the expected number of switching cycles the contactor can perform before its contacts may require maintenance or replacement due to wear. Mechanically, the contactor is rated for 30,000,000 operations without load.

This high durability is achieved through robust construction and quality materials, ensuring reliability in demanding industrial environments. The actual lifespan can vary based on the specific application, load conditions, switching frequency, and environmental factors.

Regular inspection and adherence to operating guidelines can help maximize the contactor's service life.

Q6: How does the 3RT2317-2BB40 connect to automation levels?

While the 3RT2317-2BB40 itself does not have integrated communication modules, the SIRIUS 3RT2 series contactors are designed for easy connection to automation levels. They can be integrated into systems using parallel wiring, ASi (Actuator Sensor Interface), or IO-Link technologies through appropriate gateways or communication modules, which are part of the broader SIRIUS offering. This allows for remote monitoring, control, and diagnostics within an industrial automation network.

The front terminals simplify wiring for conventional control circuits, and the modular nature of the SIRIUS system allows for expansion with communication-capable components. This ensures that even standard contactors can be part of a digitized industrial environment.

By embedding these contactors within a smart control architecture, users can achieve greater visibility into their processes, enabling predictive maintenance and optimized operations.

Q7: What are the environmental considerations for this contactor?

The Siemens 3RT2317-2BB40 is compliant with RoHS directive and has an Environmental Product Declaration (EPD) available. The EPD provides detailed information on its environmental footprint, including Global Warming Potential (GWP) values for manufacturing, operation, and end-of-life phases. For instance, the total GWP is 184 kg CO2 eq. Siemens is committed to sustainable product design, aiming to minimize environmental impact throughout the product lifecycle.

The contactor is designed for long-term use, contributing to reduced waste by offering high electrical and mechanical durability. Its operational temperature range also helps ensure efficient energy use by preventing overheating.

Adherence to WEEE directive obligations is also part of Siemens' environmental compliance for this product.

Q8: What is the rated control voltage for this contactor?

The Siemens 3RT2317-2BB40 features a rated control coil voltage of 24V DC. This specific DC voltage is commonly used in industrial control systems, particularly those incorporating Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs) and other low-voltage automation equipment. Using a DC coil provides distinct advantages in certain control scenarios, such as reduced power consumption compared to AC coils.

When wiring the control circuit, ensure the power supply precisely matches the 24V DC requirement. Deviations can lead to improper operation, reduced lifespan, or failure of the coil. The operational range for the DC coil is typically between 0.8 and 1.1 times the rated voltage.

This 24V DC control voltage makes the 3RT2317-2BB40 a highly compatible choice for many modern automated systems.

Q9: Can this contactor be used in hazardous environments?

The Siemens 3RT2317-2BB40 has a degree of protection of IP20, meaning it is protected against solid objects larger than 12.5mm but not against water. Therefore, it is not inherently designed for use in explosive or highly corrosive hazardous environments without appropriate enclosure or protection measures. For such applications, specialized contactors with higher ingress protection ratings or specific certifications for hazardous locations would be required.

Installation within a suitable enclosure is recommended to protect the contactor from dust, moisture, and accidental contact, ensuring safe operation in typical industrial settings.

Always verify the specific environmental requirements of the application and select components that meet or exceed the necessary safety standards.

Q10: What standards does the 3RT2317-2BB40 comply with?

The Siemens 3RT2317-2BB40 complies with a range of international standards, ensuring its reliability and safety for global applications. Key standards include IEC 60947-4-1, which governs low-voltage switchgear and controlgear, including contactors. It also holds certifications such as CE, EAC, CSA, UL, and CCC, demonstrating its suitability for various regional markets.

Additionally, compliance with IEC 61508 (functional safety) and DIN EN 81346-2 and DIN EN 60715 (mounting and terminology) are noted. This broad compliance profile underscores the contactor's robustness and suitability for diverse industrial control system requirements worldwide.

These certifications are critical for engineers and system integrators to ensure that components meet the required performance, safety, and regulatory specifications for their projects.