Contactor

}}

A contactor is a type of relay (electrically operated switch) with high power rating (current rating and voltage rating). Contactors usually refer to devices switching more than 15 amperes or in circuits rated more than a few kilowatts. Contactors are typically used to control electric motors (combination motor starters), lighting, heating, capacitor banks, thermal evaporators, and other electrical loads. The physical size of contactors ranges from a device small enough to pick up with one hand, to large devices approximately a meter on a side.

Contactors usually have provision for installation of additional contact blocks, rated for pilot duty, used in motor control circuits. Provided by Wikipedia