IMO CR42C 4-Pole Modular Contactor – 40A (AC1) 230V Coil for High-Power Heating & Lighting

This is the IMO CR42C 4-Pole Modular Contactor – a 40A (AC1) 230V Coil for High-Power Heating & Lighting available at SparksDirect for the best price. Purchase this item with confidence at Sparks today.

The IMO CR42C is a high-capacity modular contactor engineered for the seamless switching of heavy electrical loads. With a robust 40A AC1 rating, it is specifically built to handle large-scale resistive heating systems and extensive lighting arrays. It features 4 Normally Open (N/O) poles, making it the ideal choice for switching all three phases and the neutral simultaneously in three-phase systems, or for controlling multiple single-phase circuits from a single trigger.

As part of IMO’s modular range, the CR42C is designed for "hum-free" and virtually silent operation. This makes it perfect for installation in noise-sensitive environments like residential consumer units, hotels, hospitals, and office cupboards. It fits standard 35mm DIN rails and occupies a triple-module width (approx. 54mm) to ensure adequate heat dissipation for its 40A rating. Unlike industrial power contactors, it does not use a plug-in overload relay; protection is provided by a correctly rated circuit breaker (MCB) within the distribution board.

Technical Specifications

• Model Number: CR42C (Manufacturer Part No: HC40-40230)
• Type: Modular / Household Contactor
• Number of Poles: 4 Pole (4 x Normally Open)
• Rated Current (Ie): 40A (AC1 / AC7a - Resistive Loads)
• Heating Power: Up to 9kW at 230V (Single Phase) / 26kW at 400V (3-Phase)
• Coil Voltage: 220V–240V AC (50Hz)
• Width: 54mm (3 Module Width)
• Mounting: 35mm DIN Rail
• Terminal Capacity: Up to 16mm2 (Flexible) / 25mm2 (Solid)
• Ingress Protection: IP20 (Finger safe)
• Standards: IEC 61095, EN 61095, CE Approved

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use this for a 3-phase motor?

A: While it can switch 3-phase power, modular contactors are primarily designed for resistive loads (heating/lighting). For heavy industrial motors with frequent start/stop cycles, the IMO Industrial CR series is recommended as it allows for specialized thermal overload relays.

Q: Why is this unit much wider than the 20A version?

A: The CR42C occupies 3 modules (54mm) because high-current switching (40A) generates more heat. The increased width allows for better heat dissipation, ensuring the unit operates safely within a confined consumer unit or distribution board.

Q: Does this contactor stay "ON" if the power fails?

A: No. This is a "Normally Open" contactor. If the power to the 230V coil is lost, the internal spring will push the contacts open, safely disconnecting the load.

Who can install this?

The CR42C must be installed by a qualified electrician. Because it switches up to 40A, the wiring (typically 10mm2 or 16mm2) must be terminated with the precise manufacturer-specified torque. Improperly tightened terminals at this current level can lead to resistive heating, melting the unit and potentially causing an electrical fire.

What is this for?

The IMO CR42C is used for High-Power Modular Switching:

• Commercial 3-Phase Heating: Switching power to large air curtains, industrial immersion heaters, or commercial-grade boilers.
• Heavy Lighting Control: Managing whole-floor lighting for retail warehouses, car parks, or sports facilities.
• HVAC Systems: Acting as the primary switch for large air conditioning compressors and ventilation fans within a building management system (BMS).
• EV Charging Infrastructure: Used as a reliable switching element for higher-output electric vehicle charging circuits.

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