Description

Key Technical Specifications

Parameter	Specification
Rated Current (Ie)	300 A (at AC-3, 400V)
Rated Voltage (Ue)	690 V AC (Max)
Insulation Voltage (Ui)	1,000 V
Poles	3 NO (Normally Open) Main Contacts
Coil Voltage Options	24V / 110V / 220V / 230V AC/DC (Verify Label)
Mechanical Life	> 10,000,000 Operations
Electrical Life	> 1,000,000 Operations (AC-3)
Power Rating (AC-3)	~160 kW @ 400V / ~200 HP @ 460V
Mounting	Screw fixing or DIN Rail (depending on sub-model)
Standards	IEC 60947-4-1, VDE 0660
Origin	Made in Spain

Product Introduction

The GE CK11CE300 is a heavy-duty IEC contactor designed for harsh industrial environments. It serves as the primary switching element for 3-phase asynchronous motors, resistive heating banks, and capacitor compensation systems. With a robust mechanical design, it handles continuous currents up to 300 A while maintaining high dielectric strength.This unit distinguishes itself with exceptional durability ratings that exceed standard commodity contactors. The mechanical endurance exceeds 10 million cycles, significantly reducing maintenance intervals in high-frequency cycling applications like compressor control. Its modular auxiliary contact blocks allow for easy expansion without increasing the footprint drastically, making it a staple in complex control cabinets.

Installation & Configuration Guide

Phase 1: Preparation (10 min)

Safety First: Ensure the main power supply is locked out and tagged out (LOTO). Verify zero voltage at the terminals.
Visual Inspection: Check the ceramic housing for cracks. Ensure the coil rating printed on the front matches your control voltage (e.g., 24V vs 220V).
Tools: Prepare a torque screwdriver capable of reaching 275–375 lb-in (approx. 31–42 Nm) for the main power lugs.

Phase 2: Removal of Old Unit (if applicable) (5–10 min)

Label Wires: Mark L1, L2, L3 and T1, T2, T3 clearly. Use tape to prevent wires from falling back into the panel.
Disconnect: Loosen the main terminal screws. Remove control wiring from terminals A1/A2.
Unmount: Unscrew the base mounting bolts. Slide the unit off the DIN rail or remove the screws.

Phase 3: Installation (10 min)

Positioning: Mount the new CK11CE300 vertically. Allow at least 10mm clearance around the sides for airflow.
Secure: Tighten the mounting screws firmly. The unit must not wobble during operation.
Terminations: Connect the main power cables. Crucial: Torque the main lugs to specification to prevent hot spots. Connect the auxiliary contacts if interlocking is required.

Phase 4: Power-On & Test (10 min)

Continuity Check: Before powering up, use a multimeter to ensure there is no short between phases.
Control Test: Apply voltage to the coil (A1/A2). You should hear a solid “clack.”
Voltage Drop: Measure the voltage across the closed contacts (L1 to T1, etc.) under load. It should be negligible (<0.5V).

Troubleshooting Quick Reference

Symptom	Probable Cause	Corrective Action
Contactor hums/buzzes	Shading coil damage or low voltage	Check input voltage. If voltage is good, the magnetic core faces may be dirty or damaged—replace unit.
Contacts weld shut	Inrush current too high	Check for short circuit downstream. Verify the contactor rating matches the motor starting current (AC-3 vs AC-1).
Coil burns out	Overvoltage or duty cycle error	Verify coil voltage matches supply. Ensure the control signal isn’t “chattering” (rapidly turning on/off).
Overheating terminals	Loose connections	Re-torque the main power lugs. Check for oxidation on copper cables.
Won’t engage	Open coil circuit	Measure resistance across A1/A2. Infinite resistance means the coil is broken.

Dimensions, Mounting & Wiring Notes

Physical Size: Approx. 180 mm (H) x 110 mm (W) x 130 mm (D). Note: Dimensions vary slightly by specific sub-version.
Mounting: Designed for vertical mounting on a flat plate or standard 35mm DIN rail (check specific bracket type).
Wiring: Use copper wire rated for 75°C minimum. For 300A applications, use crimped lugs rather than bare wire to ensure a secure connection under the screw terminals.

FAQ

Q: Can I replace a CK11CE300 with a CK11CE311?
A: Usually yes. The “311” often denotes a specific coil voltage or auxiliary contact configuration variant. Compare the nameplate data carefully, specifically the coil voltage (V) and frequency (50/60Hz).Q: Why is this unit made in Spain?
A: GE’s heavy-duty IEC contactor line was historically manufactured in their European facilities (specifically Spain) to meet strict IEC and VDE standards. This indicates an original OEM part, not a generic clone.Q: My coil voltage is 24V DC, will this work?
A: Only if the label explicitly says “24V DC”. AC coils and DC coils are not interchangeable. Using an AC coil on DC power (or vice versa) will result in immediate burnout or failure to pull in.Q: Is this available with auxiliary contacts?
A: The base model usually comes with standard main contacts. Auxiliary blocks (NO/NC) are typically modular and snap onto the side or top of the CK11 series chassis.Q: What is the difference between AC-1 and AC-3 usage?
A: AC-1 is for resistive loads (heaters) where the current is steady. AC-3 is for squirrel cage motors (inductive) which have high inrush current and arcing when breaking. This contactor is rated for both, but the max amperage differs.Q: How do I know if the coil is bad?