The Siemens 3RT6023-1AG20 SIRIUS control contactor is a robust and reliable component designed for demanding industrial applications. With its 110VAC coil voltage, 9A current rating, and 3 normally open (NO) main contacts, this contactor is engineered for efficient and safe switching of electrical loads. Its compact S0 size and screw terminal connections ensure straightforward integration into control panels and electrical systems. The SIRIUS line from Siemens is synonymous with quality and performance, offering solutions that meet stringent industrial standards.
Product Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
| :---------------------------- | :-------------------------------- |
| Manufacturer | Siemens |
| Series | SIRIUS 3RT60 / 3RT2 |
| Product Number | 3RT6023-1AG20 |
| Type | Control Contactor |
| Number of Main Poles | 3 |
| Number of NO Main Contacts | 3 |
| Number of NC Main Contacts | 0 (Standard configuration) |
| Coil Voltage | 110 VAC, 50/60 Hz |
| Rated Current (AC-3) | 9 A |
| Rated Power (AC-3 @ 400V) | 4 kW |
| Auxiliary Contacts | 1 NO + 1 NC (integrated or add-on) |
| Terminal Type | Screw Terminal |
| Size | S0 |
| Operating Temperature | -25 to +60 °C |
| Insulation Voltage | 690 V |
| Degree of Pollution | 3 |
| Mechanical Service Life | 10 million switching cycles |
| Mounting | DIN Rail / Screw Mount |
| Dimensions (approximate) | 54 x 92 x 105.5 mm (W x H x D) |
| Weight (approximate) | 0.405 kg |
Core Features & Market Positioning
The Siemens 3RT6023-1AG20 stands out in the industrial control market due to its inherent reliability and the comprehensive support offered by the SIRIUS ecosystem. This contactor benefits from Siemens' decades of experience in industrial automation, ensuring robust performance in demanding environments. Its design prioritizes safe switching operations, a critical factor in preventing equipment damage and ensuring personnel safety. The SIRIUS line is known for its modularity and compatibility, allowing for seamless integration with other Siemens components like overload relays and motor protection devices, creating complete motor control solutions. The use of screw terminals simplifies wiring, a common preference in industrial settings for their secure connections.
Key Application Scenarios
The Siemens 3RT6023-1AG20 is ideally suited for a wide array of industrial applications, primarily focusing on the switching and control of electric motors and other electrical loads. Common use cases include:
Motor Control: Direct-on-line starting of three-phase motors up to 4 kW at 400V. Industrial Automation: Integration into automated production lines, conveyor systems, and machine tools for precise control of machinery. HVAC Systems: Controlling fans, pumps, and compressors in commercial and industrial heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems. Process Control: Switching power to various process equipment in manufacturing plants, water treatment facilities, and other industrial operations. Load Switching: Reliable operation for switching resistive loads within its current and voltage ratings.
Practical System Integration Guidance
Integrating the Siemens 3RT6023-1AG20 into existing or new control systems is streamlined thanks to its standard S0 size and screw terminal connections. For basic motor control, it's typically wired in series with the motor's power circuit, controlled by a lower-voltage signal (110 VAC in this case) applied to the coil. The contactor's auxiliary contacts (1 NO + 1 NC) can be used for control circuit feedback, interlocking, or signaling. For example, the normally closed (NC) auxiliary contact can be wired in series with the coil to create a holding circuit for a self-latching control scheme, while the normally open (NO) contact can be used for status indication.
When used with overload relays, such as Siemens' 3RU21 or 3RB30 series, the overload relay is typically mounted directly below the contactor, providing overcurrent protection for the motor. Wiring diagrams for specific applications can be found in the official Siemens SIRIUS documentation. The SIRIUS modular system also offers spring-loaded connection options for enhanced flexibility and faster assembly in certain configurations, though this specific model features screw terminals.
Operation and Risk Mitigation
Safe operation of the Siemens 3RT6023-1AG20 is paramount. The contactor is designed for AC operation with a 110 VAC coil. Proper wiring, ensuring correct voltage and polarity, is essential to prevent coil damage or improper operation. Overload protection, typically provided by a correctly sized thermal overload relay or electronic overload relay, must be installed in conjunction with the contactor to protect the motor and wiring from overcurrent conditions. The contactor's contacts are rated for specific load types and duty cycles (e.g., AC-3 for motor control); using it outside these parameters can lead to premature failure.
In environments with potential explosion hazards, specialized ATEX-certified devices are required. While the standard SIRIUS portfolio includes many such devices, the 3RT6023-1AG20 itself is not inherently rated for explosive atmospheres unless specified otherwise. Always ensure proper isolation and lockout/tagout procedures are followed during maintenance or troubleshooting to prevent accidental energization.
Scalability & Long-Term Value
The Siemens 3RT6023-1AG20 integrates seamlessly into the broader SIRIUS modular system, offering significant scalability and long-term value. This contactor can be easily expanded with auxiliary switch blocks to add more signaling or control contacts as system requirements evolve. Its compatibility with a wide range of Siemens overload relays, motor protection devices, and control system components ensures that it can be part of a sophisticated, integrated solution. The Siemens SIRIUS platform also increasingly supports digital solutions and IIoT integration, allowing for remote monitoring and diagnostics of motor performance when paired with appropriate communication modules. This ensures that the 3RT6023-1AG20 is not just a standalone component but a building block for future-proof, connected industrial systems.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: What is the primary function of the Siemens 3RT6023-1AG20?
The Siemens 3RT6023-1AG20 is an industrial control contactor. Its main role is to switch electrical circuits on and off, especially for controlling electric motors. It acts as a remote-controlled heavy-duty switch.
It uses a 110VAC coil to electromagnetically operate contacts. When energized, the coil pulls in a mechanism that closes the main power contacts, allowing current to flow to the load, typically a motor.
This specific model is rated for 9A at AC-3 duty, making it suitable for motor loads up to 4kW at 400V, offering reliable motor switching.
Q2: What are the key technical specifications of the 3RT6023-1AG20?
This Siemens contactor features a 110 VAC coil voltage for operation. It has a 3-pole configuration for three-phase power circuits.
The rated current for motor control (AC-3) is 9 Amps, with a maximum power handling of 4 kW at 400 Volts. It includes integrated auxiliary contacts: one normally open (NO) and one normally closed (NC).
It is built in the compact S0 size and utilizes screw terminals for secure electrical connections, designed for easy DIN rail or panel mounting.
Q3: Where is the Siemens 3RT6023-1AG20 typically used?
This contactor is widely employed in industrial automation for starting and stopping electric motors. Common applications include controlling pumps, fans, compressors, and conveyor belts.
It is also utilized in machine tools, HVAC systems, and general power switching tasks where remote or automated control of electrical loads is required.
Its robust design and 9A rating make it a versatile choice for many standard industrial motor control applications.
Q4: Can this contactor be used with a DC coil voltage?
No, the Siemens 3RT6023-1AG20 is specifically designed with a 110 VAC coil. It is not compatible with DC coil voltages.
Siemens offers other SIRIUS contactors with DC coils if your application requires it. Always check the product's exact model number and datasheet for coil voltage compatibility.
The specified coil voltage of 110V AC is crucial for its proper function and longevity.
Q5: What type of auxiliary contacts does this contactor have?
The Siemens 3RT6023-1AG20 comes with integrated auxiliary contacts. It includes one normally open (NO) contact and one normally closed (NC) contact.
These auxiliary contacts are typically used for control circuit functions, such as interlocking, signaling, or providing feedback on the contactor's status to a control system.
Additional auxiliary switch blocks can often be added to expand the number of available contacts if more complex control logic is needed.
Q6: How is the 3RT6023-1AG20 mounted?
This Siemens contactor is designed for versatile mounting. It can be easily mounted onto a standard 35mm DIN rail.
Alternatively, it can be secured directly to a control panel or mounting plate using screw terminals. This flexibility simplifies installation in various industrial electrical enclosures.
The S0 size is a standard for panel builders, ensuring compatibility with many common enclosure designs and layouts.
Q7: What is the significance of the SIRIUS product line?
SIRIUS is Siemens' comprehensive system for industrial control and protection devices. It offers a wide range of contactors, relays, motor starters, and communication modules.
The SIRIUS system is known for its high quality, reliability, and modular design. This allows for flexible and scalable solutions for motor control and automation tasks.
Components within the SIRIUS line are designed to be compatible with each other, facilitating the creation of integrated and efficient control systems.
Q8: Does this contactor require separate overload protection?
Yes, the Siemens 3RT6023-1AG20 contactor itself does not provide motor overload protection. It is primarily a switching device.
Separate overload relays (thermal or electronic) must be installed, usually mounted directly onto the contactor or wired into the control circuit, to protect the motor from overcurrent conditions.
Properly sizing and installing overload protection is critical for preventing motor damage and ensuring operational safety.
Q9: What is the mechanical service life of this contactor?
The Siemens 3RT6023-1AG20 has a mechanical service life of approximately 10 million switching cycles. This indicates its durability under operational stress.
However, the electrical service life will depend heavily on the load type, switching frequency, and operating conditions. For AC-3 motor switching, the electrical life will be significantly less than the mechanical life.
Adhering to the rated load conditions and avoiding frequent switching under heavy loads will maximize the contactor's operational lifespan.
Q10: Are there any special considerations for wiring this contactor?
Yes, always ensure the coil voltage supply matches the 110 VAC rating precisely. Incorrect voltage can damage the coil.
Use appropriate gauge wiring for the 9A current rating to prevent overheating and ensure secure connections with the screw terminals. Follow torque specifications if provided.
The auxiliary contacts are low-power and should not be used to switch high currents directly; they are intended for control circuit applications.