What it is and what it does
The Siemens 3RT1023-1AV00 is a SIRIUS power contactor in the S0 frame size, built for switching three-phase motor loads in control panels. Its three normally-open main contacts handle the power circuit; there are no NC main contacts on this variant. Rated for AC-2 duty at 4 kW and AC-4 inching at 8.5 A, both at 400 V, it covers the common European motor voltage. The coil operates at 400 V, 50 Hz. Mounts via screw or snap-on onto 35 mm DIN rail per EN 50022, fitting standard panel layouts. The 45 mm width leaves room for auxiliary contact blocks or overload relays alongside. Front face is IP20; terminals are IP00, meaning the wiring zone expects enclosure protection.
Key ratings and what they mean for fit
The AC-2 rating of 4 kW at 400 V is the duty cycle for slip-ring motors — starting and running without frequent reversal. For AC-4 (plugging or inching), the contactor is rated 8.5 A at 400 V, which is the limiting current for frequent motor reversals or jogging. At 690 V, the motor rating reaches 5.5 kW, useful in 690 V industrial networks common in mining or heavy process plants. Short-circuit coordination is specified with two fuse levels: Type 2 coordination requires a 25 A gL/gG fuse; Type 1 coordination allows a 63 A gL/gG fuse. This tells the panel builder what upstream protection keeps the contactor repairable (Type 2) versus just safe (Type 1) after a fault. Mechanical endurance is rated at 10 million operating cycles, matching the SIRIUS S0 family standard for long-life applications like conveyor systems or pump panels where the contactor cycles with every start. Ambient operating range from -25 °C to +60 °C covers most indoor panel environments, including unheated warehouses. Degree of pollution 3 means it tolerates conductive dust or humidity typical in industrial enclosures without conformal coating.
Mounting and wiring details
Screw-type terminals on the main circuit accept solid or stranded conductors: 2x 0.5–1.5 mm², 2x 0.75–2.5 mm², or max 2x 4 mm² for the control circuit; main power terminals take 2x 1–2.5 mm², 2x 2.5–6 mm², or max 2x 10 mm². AWG equivalents are 2x 16–12, 2x 14–10, or 1x 8. Side-by-side mounting is permitted without derating, saving panel width. Dimensions are 45 mm wide, 85 mm high, 91 mm deep. The 91 mm depth includes terminal projection — verify clearance to the enclosure door or gland plate.