The Schneider Electric LC1E1801P7 is a 3-pole contactor from the Easy TeSys Control range, rated for 18 A in AC-3 duty at up to 440 V with a 230 V AC coil and one normally-closed auxiliary contact. It is designed for motor control and resistive load switching, covering the AC-3, AC-3e, and AC-1 utilisation categories. The AC-3 rating (18 A) is the key figure for motor starting — it governs the contactor's ability to handle the inrush current of a squirrel-cage motor during start-up and break the running current. The AC-1 rating covers resistive loads like heaters, where the switching duty is less severe.
Dimensions are 80 mm deep by 74 mm high — factor that into your enclosure fill and gland-plate clearance. The IP2X degree of protection means it is finger-safe but not sealed against dust or moisture — install inside a panel with an appropriate enclosure rating for the environment.
Operates from -5 °C to 55 °C ambient, with storage from -60 °C to 80 °C. The TH protective treatment (pollution degree 3) per IEC 60068-2-30 means it withstands humid, tropical conditions — relevant for unheated enclosures or coastal sites. Fire resistance tested to 850 °C per IEC 60695-2-1. Also meets EN/IEC 60335-1 Clause 30.2 and EN/IEC 60335-2-40 Annex JJ for appliance applications.
Mechanical and timing notes
The non-overlap time between NC and NO contacts is guaranteed at 1.5 ms on both energisation and de-energisation — important for interlocking circuits where you need to ensure one set of contacts opens before the other closes. Mechanical robustness: withstands 1.5 Gn vibration (open) and 3 Gn (closed) across 5–300 Hz, plus shock ratings of 7 Gn (open) and 10 Gn (closed) for 11 ms. Suitable for applications with moderate vibration, such as conveyor systems or pump panels.