Important Features Of A High Voltage Contactor

By Robert Hughes


At the end of the 19th century, advances in the semiconductor technology introduced solid state switches. These type of switches replaced the older models that were being used before. Such models included thyratrons, ignitrons, and spark gaps. Before the invention, electronics used older drivers which have since been replaced by TTL input controls that have dramatically improved performance and efficiency. A high voltage contactor has been used a lot in the past few years and there are a lot of details that make them stand out.

There is a lower input power loss compared to another type of switches. This is attributed to the use of MOSFET technology. This technology dramatically decreases the power losses. This power loss can be attributed to the total charge, voltage and the frequency of the switch. When the gate charge is small it means that the input loss will also be minimal. This is totally different from switches that use bipolar transistors where input power losses are very high.

These are the most reliable and efficient switches when it comes to current equipment. Most of this equipment requires a steady saturation even when short circuited. In switch mode supplies, these contactors use smaller inductors because switching is done at fast speeds. This greatly improves the overall efficiency of the contactors. The reliability they offer has made them the best choice for high current equipment such as medical test equipment.

Switches are easily customized especially when it comes to the housing and footprint. This helps them suit and fit where they are meant to be used. Besides the customization, these contactors are quite easy to use due to the incorporation of galvanic isolation with TTL control. The sensitivity of the switches is also customized in different ways to suit the specified use.

The switches have been designed to prevent cases of overload or voltage reversal. Voltage reversals have been causing adverse effects which makes them safe for use anywhere. The technologies used in these contactors reduce risks that come with handling the current.

These contactors are voltage controlled unlike those controlled by current. This helps them to switch using very little current which means they can handle high loads without heating. On the other hand, other switches require a fair amount of current to switch which makes them create a lot of heat when handling high loads. The possibility of these switches operating in linear mode is very minimal. This is because the level of drain current does affect the gate-source voltage.

Faster switching is guaranteed with these switches. This is because they are able to handle high frequencies. The switching losses are incredibly low compared to other switches. The gate of transistors used in these contactors is insulated with a thin oxide layer which means they do not need to draw current when switching. This has an advantage in speed and the time taken to switch.

There are many developments still being made in the semiconductor technology in order to reduce limitations if these contactors. They are efficient enough to be used in day-to-day operations but still have a few downsides that need to be taken care of. The above-discussed features are just some of the advantages of using these switches. These are sure to make your work easy.




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