Electromechanical switching device controlling motor and brake circuits in the elevator.
Full Definition
Elevator contactors are heavy-duty electromechanical switches that connect and disconnect the hoist motor, brake coil, and other high-current circuits under the command of the elevator controller. Main contactors include the up contactor, down contactor, and brake contactor. They must be rated for the motor starting current (typically 5–7× full-load current) and the number of operating cycles per hour. In modern VFD-based elevators, the main power is switched by the drive, with contactors used only for isolation and the brake circuit. Contact condition is monitored by the safety circuit.
