What it is and what it does
The Siemens 3RT1017-1AG01 is a SIRIUS S00 power contactor with screw-type main terminals, designed for switching motor loads in control panels. It mounts via screw and snap-on onto 35 mm standard mounting rail per DIN EN 50022, so it integrates directly into a DIN-rail panel layout without extra brackets. Rated at 5.5 kW at 400 V in AC-2 duty (slip-ring motor starting) and 8.5 A in AC-4 duty (plugging/inching), this contactor handles moderate motor loads common in conveyor and pump applications. The AC-2 figure tells you the continuous motor-switching capacity; the AC-4 figure governs the inching and reversing cycles where contact wear is higher. Main contact ratings span 10 A at 24 V, 6 A at 230 V, 3 A at 400 V, and 5.5 kW at 690 V, giving you a quick check for resistive or lightly inductive circuits at different line voltages. The 690 V rating (5.5 kW) matches the same power as the 400 V AC-2 rating, confirming the contactor is sized for the motor load, not just the line voltage.
Coordination and wiring
For type 1 coordination (no damage to the contactor after a short circuit) the required upstream fuse is gL/gG 35 A; for type 2 coordination (contactor remains usable after a fault) it is gL/gG 20 A. These fuse specs are what you hand to the panel builder for the branch circuit design. Screw terminals accept 2x (0.5 to 1.5 mm²), 2x (0.75 to 2.5 mm²), or max 2x (0.75 to 4 mm²) solid or stranded wire, and 1x 12 AWG. The dual-wire entry is handy for daisy-chaining control wiring without extra terminal blocks.
Mechanical fit and environment
The S00 frame measures 45 mm wide, 57.5 mm high, and 72 mm deep — a compact footprint that leaves room for auxiliary contact blocks or other devices on the same DIN rail. Side-by-side mounting is permitted without derating, which simplifies panel layout when you need multiple contactors in a row. Operating temperature range is -25 to +60 °C, with a maximum operating altitude of 2 000 m. Pollution degree 3 (conductive pollution, typical in industrial enclosures) and IP20 finger-safe protection on the front and terminals mean it is suited for enclosed panel installation, not open washdown areas.