A specialized electrical switch designed for specific applications, primarily within the heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and refrigeration (HVACR) industries. This device provides a safe and reliable method for repeatedly establishing and interrupting an electrical circuit, often to control motors or other loads. For instance, it might be used to switch on and off the compressor motor in an air conditioning system or the fan motor in a furnace.
Its significance lies in its cost-effectiveness and optimized performance for repetitive duty cycles common in these applications. Historically, general-purpose contactors were often employed, but these were often over-engineered and more expensive than necessary. This specialized type offers a tailored solution, providing adequate performance at a reduced cost. This has lead to its wide spread adoption and streamlined manufacturing processes within the HVACR sector.