What it is and what it does
The Siemens 3RT1016-2JB41 is a SIRIUS power contactor in frame size S00, designed for switching motor loads in control panels. It mounts via screw or snap-on onto a 35 mm DIN rail per EN 50022, so it integrates into standard panel layouts without adapters. The main circuit uses spring-loaded terminals accepting 2x (0.25 to 2.5 mm²) solid or stranded wire, or 2x (24 to 14 AWG). This saves wiring time compared to screw terminals and resists loosening under vibration. The 24 VDC coil includes a built-in diode surge suppressor, so you don't need an external flyback diode across the coil — one less component to source and mount. Coil holding power is a constant 2.3 W DC, which simplifies PLC output sizing.
Key ratings — what they mean for your BOM
Rated for AC-2 duty at 4 kW at 400 V, this contactor handles slip-ring motor starting and reversing loads where the current stays below the make/break stress of AC-3. The AC-4 rating of 8.5 A at 400 V covers plugging and inching duty — the toughest thermal cycle for a contactor. The auxiliary contact block carries 10 A at 24 V, 6 A at 230 V, and 3 A at 400 V (AC-12). These are the ratings for control-circuit switching — interlocking, PLC inputs, or indicator lamps. At 24 VDC the same contact switches 10 A, but at 220 VDC it derates to 0.3 A; inductive DC loads need careful checking against the curve. Pollution degree 3 means the contactor is rated for industrial atmospheres with conductive dust or occasional condensation — typical for an unsealed panel in a factory environment. The IP20 rating on the front and terminals means finger-safe but not washdown-rated; keep it inside a cabinet. Operating temperature range of -25 to +60 °C covers most indoor industrial environments. The 30 million mechanical cycles figure is the expected life without electrical load — useful for estimating maintenance intervals on lightly loaded signal switching.
Panel fit and wiring
Dimensions are 45 mm wide, 60 mm tall, and 73 mm deep — the S00 footprint. Side-by-side mounting is allowed with 6 mm spacing at the side, so you can pack multiple contactors on a rail without derating for heat buildup. For type 1 coordination (no damage to the contactor under short circuit), use a gL/gG fuse rated 35 A. For type 2 coordination (contactor remains usable after a fault), the fuse drops to 20 A. This is the spec your panel designer needs for the SCCR calculation.