High Power contactors are a special class of electrical relays that are required to switch to much higher currents and voltages. Not only must the power systems accommodate the routine flight requirements, but they must also offer backup power and emergency power. These electrically controlled devices use a low-power coil drive circuit to switch to a higher power circuit. The contactor is located near the controlled load, allowing for weight savings because of smaller wirings sizes that are used for on/off coil control of the remote load. Our Mil-Aero contactors control high power circuits and offer efficient and smart operation to protect against overcurrent and faults. One of the biggest trends today for aerospace and military contactors is building more electronic intelligence to protect against abnormal events and to detect system faults. Our lightweight Mil-Aero contactors offer continuous current ratings up to 2000A and voltages up to 1,800 VDC in compact, sealed packages. Contactors are used to control different power sources in large commercial military aircraft, which includes engine-driven generators, auxiliary power units, batteries, external power, and ram air turbines. Our contactors provide the switching performance required for aerospace and defense applications.
At TE, we offer extensive capabilities in designing and manufacturing relays, contactors, solenoids and power distribution units for use in demanding, high performance applications. Whether you need commercial off-the-shelf products, or components that must meet stringent military specifications, or even highly specialized, custom-designed products, we can help you address your requirements.
Frequently Asked Questions
High-Performance Relays and Contactors
Q: What are the differences between TE's CII, Hartman, and Kilovac brands?
A: Our CII line of products covers DC and AC relays, ranging from signal level to 50A hermetically sealed relays, otherwise known as “mid-range” products. Included in this category are TO-5 style relays, crystal can relays, time delay relays, and MIL-qualified products. Our Hartman portfolio provides both DC and AC contactors ranging from 25A to 1000A. Included in this category are 1PST to 3PDT environmentally seal devices. Our Kilovac brand covers high voltage DC hermetically sealed relays and contactors. Included in this category are 270Vdc to 70 KVdc devices from a few amps to 1000A.
Q: How do TE industrial relays compare to high-performance relays?
A: Industrial products (Potter & Brumfield, Axicom, and Schrack) will typically have a UL or CSA rating. High-performance products (CII, HARTMAN, and Kilovac) will be generally screened to a MIL or custom baseline test procedure, or qualified to M6106, M83726, or M83536. Industrial products are typically plastic-cased and unsealed. High-performance products are generally hermetically/environmentally sealed with a metal housing. Industrial relays are typically used in appliance, automotive, computer, and/or consumer products. High-performance devices are generally used in medical, aerospace, military, and harsh/high reliability environments.