In modern industrial automation, every connection matters. The Sprecher + Schuh CA7-72-00 Contactor stands as a benchmark for durability, safety, and performance in motor control systems. Designed to handle heavy-duty operations while meeting the most stringent international safety standards, this contactor is the backbone of reliable machine control. When paired with the CAS7-PV Auxiliary Block (CAS7-72-14C-240Z), it becomes a complete safety contactor solution ideal for demanding applications like pumps, compressors, conveyors, and robotics.
Understanding the Sprecher + Schuh CA7-72-00 Contactor
The Sprecher + Schuh CA7-72-00 Contactor is a 3-phase IEC motor contactor rated at 72A AC-3, designed for motor loads in the 22–45kW range (up to 50HP). Built for reliability, it ensures optimal electrical performance even under high inrush currents typical in motor starting operations. Its robust construction, long mechanical life, and integrated safety features make it a trusted component in industrial control panels worldwide.
This model comes equipped with the CAS7-PV Auxiliary Block, featuring a configuration of 1 Normally Open (NO) + 4 Normally Closed (NC) mirror contacts. This combination allows for enhanced monitoring, fail-safe feedback, and redundancy within safety circuits—critical for meeting functional safety requirements.
Key Features and Specifications of the CA7-72-00 Contactor
Electrical Ratings and Performance
The CA7-72-00 Contactor delivers exceptional performance in heavy-duty motor control:
● Main Contacts: 3NO (3 Normally Open) main poles rated at 72A (AC-3, 415V) and 42A at 690V.
● Resistive Load Rating: Up to 100A (AC-1, 415V) for non-motor loads.
● Motor Power Rating: Handles up to 40kW motors at 415V or 50HP at 460V.
● Durability: Mechanical endurance rated in millions of operations.
● Coil Voltage: 24V DC conventional coil for compatibility with standard control voltages.
These ratings ensure stable, bounce-free operation and extended service life, even in applications involving frequent switching or harsh conditions.
Auxiliary Contacts and Safety Integration
The CAS7-PV Auxiliary Block adds advanced safety functionality, featuring 1NO + 4NC cross-stamped auxiliary contacts. The NC contacts act as mirror contacts—mechanically linked to the main poles to prevent simultaneous closure in fault conditions. This design guarantees reliable feedback and compliance with IEC 60947-4-1 safety standards for mechanically linked contacts.
The force-guided contacts provide fail-safe indication: if the main poles are welded or closed, the NC auxiliaries cannot close. This functionality is crucial in emergency stop (E-stop) and safety interlock circuits, ensuring that feedback signals accurately reflect the contactor’s true status.
Built-In Safety: Why the CA7-72-00 Excels
All Sprecher + Schuh CA7 series contactors are inherently safety-rated. The CA7-72-00, combined with the CAS7-PV block, complies with IEC 60947-4-1 Annex F and IEC 60947-5-1 standards. This makes it ideal for integration into safety circuits that demand mirror contacts, positive-guided mechanisms, and fault detection.
The safety contactor design prevents manual tampering through covered override features and tamper-resistant mechanisms. This ensures compliance with Category 4 / PLe safety systems under ISO 13849, making it suitable for use in high-risk machinery and automation lines.
Mechanical Design and Durability
Robust Build and Protection
The CA7-72-00 boasts a thermoplastic/thermoset frame with an IP20 protection rating, ensuring finger-safe operation. Its terminals are screw-type for secure wiring and are reversible for flexible installation. Arc-quenching chambers are integrated to safely dissipate arc energy during high-current switching, and dual power terminals per pole simplify wiring.
Environmental Performance
● Operating Temperature: –25°C to +60°C.
● Insulation Voltage (Ui): 690V AC.
● Impulse Withstand Voltage: 8kV.
● Mounting: DIN-rail or panel-mounted.
These specifications guarantee reliability in demanding industrial environments, from manufacturing facilities to outdoor installations.
Compatibility and Accessories
Modular System Integration
The CA7 series uses a modular accessory system that allows easy customization:
● Auxiliary Blocks: CAS7-PV (safety), CA7-PA (standard), side-mounted modules.
● Surge Suppressors: Protect control circuits from voltage spikes.
● Timing Modules: Add-on pneumatic off-delay timers.
For motor protection, the CA7-72-00 pairs seamlessly with CT7 or CEP7 overload relays, forming a complete motor starter package that provides both control and thermal protection.
Applications of the Sprecher + Schuh CA7-72-00 Contactor
1. Industrial Safety Systems
The CA7-72-00 Contactor with CAS7-PV Auxiliary Block is the heart of many Category 4 / PLe safety systems. Its 4NC mirror contacts integrate easily with safety controllers and relays, ensuring machines enter a safe state in case of a fault. Typical applications include:
● Emergency stop circuits
● Safety gate interlocks
● Robotic cells
● Presses and conveyors
2. Motor Control and Automation
With a 40kW motor rating, this contactor controls large industrial motors in systems such as:
● Pumps and compressors
● Fans and HVAC units
● Material handling conveyors
● Mixers, crushers, and elevators
Its compatibility with DC and AC coils, interchangeable accessories, and modular overloads make it one of the most versatile contactors in the market.
Standards, Certifications, and Compliance
The Sprecher + Schuh CA7-72-00 Contactor is tested and certified to meet global safety and quality benchmarks:
● IEC/EN 60947-4-1: Low-voltage contactors standard.
● IEC/EN 60947-5-1: Mechanically linked contact standard.
● UL 508 / UL 60947-4-1: Industrial control contactor.
● CSA Certification: North American approval.
● CE Marked: Compliance with EU safety directives.
These certifications affirm the contactor’s reliability, making it suitable for both European and North American control panels.
Alternative Models and Cross-References
Sprecher + Schuh offers a complete range of CA7 contactors with varying capacities:
● CA7-55: 55A, suitable for medium motors.
● CA7-60: 60A, for mid-range applications.
● CA7-85 / CA7-97: Higher current ratings for larger motors.
All models can be paired with CAS7-PV auxiliary blocks for enhanced safety integration. For cross-referencing, the CA7-72 aligns closely with the Allen-Bradley 100-D series, given Sprecher + Schuh’s partnership with Rockwell Automation. Equivalent models from Siemens (3RT105) and Schneider Electric (LC1D115) are also comparable alternatives.
Environmental and Operational Notes
For optimal performance, always install the contactor vertically and maintain proper clearance distances. The CA7-72-00 is rated for Pollution Degree 3 environments, supporting reliable operation even in dusty or humid conditions. Regular inspection and maintenance ensure long service life, and all major components—coils, contacts, and auxiliaries—are replaceable.
Related Product Collections
Explore related collections to complement your Sprecher + Schuh CA7-72-00 Contactor setup:
➤ Motor Control Equipment
Comprehensive range of motor control components including contactors, overload relays, and motor starters ideal for industrial automation systems.
➤ Control Relays (Motor Control Equipment)
A collection of premium control relays for precision switching, interlocking, and automation applications.
➤ Discontinued Collection
Access hard-to-find and legacy electrical components for maintenance, replacement, or cost-effective system repairs.
Conclusion: Power Meets Safety in One Contactor
The Sprecher + Schuh CA7-72-00 Contactor with CAS7-PV Auxiliary Block (CAS7-72-14C-240Z) represents the perfect combination of power, precision, and protection. Designed for high-performance motor control, it ensures operational safety, modularity, and compliance with the world’s leading standards.
Engineers, electricians, and automation specialists looking to improve system reliability and safety can trust the CA7-72-00 to deliver uncompromising performance. For more details, specifications, and ordering options, visit the CA7-72-00 product page on Industrial Electrical Warehouse.
