I want to power two heating strips. I have available to me a three phase contactor to pull power, which is activated by a temperature controller. I am hoping to split this power into two single phases to power two heating strips. The contactor itself definitely receives power and emits a large clicking noise.
However, my heating strips do not appear to be drawing power. I am unfamiliar with contactor setup schemes. I currently have the relay segment of my temperature controller connected to the power in of the contactor (denoted by connections A and B). Meanwhile, heater strip 1 is connected to C and D, and 2 is connected to E and F.
Do I need to bridge the middle connection to draw power from the contactor, or is there something else I am missing?
Best Answer
A contactor is not a power source and does not generate electricity. It is simply a set of switch contacts operated by an electro-magnet coil. Your circuit just connects the ends of the heaters to each other when the coil is energised.
simulate this circuit – Schematic created using CircuitLab
Figure 1. Correct wiring of system.