
Why Use a Compensation Contactor?
At the moment of switching, a capacitor practically behaves like a short circuit.
The magnitude of the inrush (charging) current depends on the AC voltage level at the moment of
switching, as well as the impedance of the supply cable and power transformers.
In single capacitor applications, the peak charging current can reach up to 30 times the capacitor’s rated
current. For multi-step capacitor banks, inrush currents may exceed 180 times the rated value.
The ENT Series Capacitor Contactors are specially designed to
meet capacitor application requirements. The contactors are
equipped with three early-make auxiliary contact blocks and six
series-connected resistors—two fast discharge damping resistors
per phase. This design limits the inrush current to remain within
the contactor’s making capacity. The main contacts are designed
to carry the normal rated capacitor current, and after closing,
eectively short-circuit the resistors.
This design enables safe and reliable switching of capacitor loads with high eciency.
• The contactors are three-phase, rated for 415V AC, 50/60 Hz, with capacities ranging
from 2.5 kVAr to 100 kVAr.
• They comply with IEC 60947-4-1 and IS/IEC 60947-4-1 standards for AC-6B utilization category.
• Compliant with IS 13947-4-1 Standard for AC-6B Utilization Category
• Reduces costly spare part expenses.
• Ensures long electrical lifetime.
• Provides low power loss in the ‘ON’ position, contributing to energy savings.
• Eliminates the risk of dangerous voltage.
• Enables parallel switching of capacitors without requiring power derating.
• Increases operational eciency with less maintenance and downtime.
This excessive inrush current may pass through
the contactor due to the contribution from both
the supply network and the previously connected
capacitors. Such current levels can be sucient to
cause welding of the main contacts in standard
• To limit current uctuations, add a series
damping resistor for fast discharge.
• Make sure to use a specially designed capacitor
Discharge Unit Discharge Unit