Contact Wiring Diagram - Wiring Guide

A contact wiring diagram is a schematic representation of the connections between electrical contacts and the electrical components in a system. It is used to understand the behavior of an electrical system by providing information about how the components within it interact with each other. Contact wiring diagrams are primarily used to troubleshoot faulty wiring or to assist in the installation of new equipment.

The types of contacts in a contact wiring diagram depend on the type of system being diagrammed. Generally speaking, the contacts in a contact wiring diagram can be categorized as normally open (NO) or normally closed (NC). Normally open contacts remain open until they are energized, while normally closed contacts remain closed until they are energized. The contacts can also be further broken down into control or power relays.

Reading a contact wiring diagram is not a difficult task. To begin, identify the components that are connected to each other and note their location. Then, draw lines between the components to indicate the direction of current flow and use arrows to mark the direction of the control signal. Finally, add labels to the diagram to indicate what contacts are normally open, normally closed, and the type of relay used.

A normally open contact is one that remains open until it is energized. In other words, when the contact is not energized, it is “open” and no current is flowing through it. A normally open contact is typically found in motor starters and other control circuits.

A normally closed contact is one that remains closed until it is energized. This means that when the contact is not energized, it is “closed” and current is flowing through it. Normally closed contacts are commonly used in safety circuits to prevent unwanted current from flowing through the system.

A control relay is a type of electrical switch that is used to control the flow of current. Control relays are typically used to turn off a device or circuit when it is not needed. They are also used to sense when a device has reached a certain temperature or pressure setting.

Power relays are used to carry large amounts of electrical current. They are often used to start or stop motors or other equipment. Power relays can also be used to control the speed of a motor or other piece of equipment.

Wiring a normally open contact is relatively easy. Connect the two wires that make up the circuit to the two terminals on the contact. Make sure to connect the correct wire to the correct terminal. Then, connect the ground wire to the contact's ground terminal.

Wiring a normally closed contact is slightly more complicated than wiring a normally open contact. Start by connecting the two wires that make up the circuit to the two terminals on the contact. Then, connect the fourth wire to the contact's ground terminal. Finally, connect the third wire to the contact's control terminal.

Contact wiring diagrams can be a complex subject to understand, but with some understanding of the principles behind them, they can provide a great deal of insight into the behavior of an electrical system. Knowing the different types of contacts and how to read the diagrams can help you diagnose and solve any problems you may have with your system.