What It Is and Where It Fits
The Siemens 3RT1015-1AK61 is a SIRIUS power contactor in the compact S00 frame size, designed for switching motor loads in control panels. It mounts via screw or snap-on onto a 35 mm DIN rail per DIN EN 50022, so it integrates directly into a standard panel layout without adapters. Rated for AC-2 duty at 3 kW at 400 V, this contactor handles wound-rotor motor starting and reversing. For AC-4 duty (plugging, inching), it carries 6.5 A at 400 V. Power ratings extend to 3.5 kW at 500 V and 4 kW at 690 V, covering common European and North American line voltages.
Key Ratings and What They Mean for Fit
The AC-1 resistive rating at 24 V is 10 A, and at 230 V it is 6 A — these govern heater and lighting loads, not motor starts. The AC-3 motor-switching rating is not explicitly listed, but the AC-2 and AC-4 figures bracket it: expect the contactor to suit a 3 kW motor at 400 V in standard starting duty. Mechanical life is 30,000,000 operations typical, so it is specced for high-cycle applications like conveyor indexing or pump cycling. The operating temperature range of -25 to +60 °C means it can live in unheated enclosures or near process heat without derating. IP20 protection on the front and terminals means it is safe for finger contact in a closed panel but not for washdown or outdoor exposure. Pollution degree 3 confirms it tolerates conductive dust and humidity typical of industrial floors.
Termination and Wiring
Both main and auxiliary circuits use screw-type terminals. Wire range for solid conductors is 2x (0.5 to 1.5 mm²) and 2x (0.75 to 2.5 mm²), with a maximum of 2x (0.75 to 4 mm²). AWG equivalents are 2x (20 to 16) and 2x (18 to 14), plus a single 12 AWG. This covers most panel wiring from signal-level to light power feeds. Fuse coordination: for Type 2 coordination (no damage to the contactor on a short circuit), use a gL/gG fuse rated 20 A. For Type 1 coordination (contactor may need replacement after a fault), the fuse rating is 35 A. This matters when laying out the protection scheme upstream.
Lifecycle and Sourcing Reality
RoHS compliance is confirmed with a substance prohibition date of 01.07.2006, covering the EU RoHS directive. The reference code per IEC 81346-2 is Q, which maps to switching devices in a plant documentation system.