GE BK698CPA15B0

Description

Introduction to the GE BK698CPA15B0

Product Description

The GE BK698CPA15B0 is a specific model of a contactor from GE’s comprehensive line of industrial motor control and power switching components. This device is a robust, electromechanical contactor designed for making and breaking electrical power circuits, primarily for controlling three-phase AC motors, heating loads, or other high-power equipment. The GE BK698CPA15B0 functions as a remotely operated switch, activated by a control coil, to safely connect and disconnect the load from the power source. It is a key component in motor starter assemblies, providing the primary switching function often in conjunction with an overload relay for protection. The rugged construction of this contactor ensures reliable performance and long electrical life in demanding industrial environments.

Product Parameters

• Product Series: GE Contactor Series (e.g., BK, CK, or similar line)

• Model: BK698CPA15B0

• Device Type: Electromechanical Power Contactor

• Pole Configuration: Typically a 3-pole contactor for three-phase applications.

• Rated Operational Current (Ie): The “15” in the model likely indicates a specific current rating (e.g., 15 Amperes) at a given voltage.

• Rated Operational Voltage (Ue): Designed for standard AC voltages such as 240V, 480V, or 600V.

• Coil Voltage: Available in various standard control voltages (e.g., 24VAC/DC, 120VAC, 240VAC) – the suffix “B0” may specify the coil type.

• Auxiliary Contacts: May include one or more normally open (NO) and/or normally closed (NC) auxiliary contacts for control circuit interlocking.

• Mounting: Designed for mounting on a standard DIN rail or panel.

• Standards: Complies with relevant international standards (IEC, UL).

Advantages and Features

The primary advantage of the GE BK698CPA15B0 is its proven, reliable design for switching power circuits. It offers a high mechanical and electrical lifespan, capable of withstanding a large number of operating cycles. The contactor provides secure and low-resistance connections when closed, minimizing power loss and heat generation. Its design often includes features like dust covers, arc chutes for safe arc extinction, and a transparent cover for visual inspection of contacts. The BK698CPA15B0 is known for its easy installation and compatibility with a wide range of GE overload relays and accessories, simplifying the assembly of a complete motor starter.

Application Cases in Industry

This contactor is used in a vast array of industries for motor control and power switching. In industrial machinery, it starts and stops motors for pumps, fans, compressors, and conveyors. Within HVAC systems, the GE BK698CPA15B0 controls the compressors and fan motors in large air conditioning units. In commercial buildings, it is used in electrical panels for lighting control and heating circuits. It is also commonly found in agricultural equipment, material handling systems, and water treatment plants for general-purpose power switching duties.

Comparison with Competing Products

Competing products are contactors of similar ratings from manufacturers like Schneider Electric (TeSys D), Siemens (3RT), ABB (A-series), and Allen-Bradley (Bulletin 100). The GE BK698CPA15B0 competes based on GE’s strong brand reputation in electrical distribution, product availability, and its mechanical and electrical compatibility within the broader GE motor control ecosystem (like with GE overload relays). Performance and features among top brands are generally comparable for standard applications. The choice often comes down to brand preference, existing panel standards, pricing, and the availability of specific coil voltages or auxiliary contact configurations.

Selection Suggestions and Precautions

Selecting the correct GE BK698CPA15B0 requires matching several key parameters to the application:

1. Load Current: The contactor’s rated operational current must be equal to or greater than the full-load current (FLA) of the motor or load it controls.

2. Voltage: The contactor’s voltage rating and the coil voltage must match the system’s power and control circuit voltages.

3. Utilization Category: Ensure it is rated for the appropriate duty (e.g., AC-3 for squirrel-cage motor starting).

4. Auxiliary Contacts: Verify the number and type (NO/NC) of auxiliary contacts meet the control logic requirements.

Precautions:

• Installation and wiring must be performed by a qualified electrician following all local and national electrical codes (e.g., NEC).

• Ensure the contactor is properly fused or protected by a circuit breaker with the correct interrupting rating for the installation.

• Provide adequate ventilation and do not exceed the specified ambient temperature range.

• For motor loads, always use in conjunction with a properly sized and set overload relay to provide running overload protection. The contactor itself does not provide this protection.

• When replacing a contactor, verify that the new unit’s coil voltage matches the old one to prevent damage or unsafe operation.

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