Contractors are used to only MAKE and never BREAK the circuit to high-current, non-motor loads.

• A. True
• B. Sometimes
• C. Not applicable
• D. False

Answer: (D)

Contractors are devices that control power to a load by closing and opening the main contacts. When the control coil is energized, the contacts close and complete the circuit (make), allowing current to flow to the load. When the coil is de-energized, the contacts open and interrupt the circuit (break), stopping current. So, for high-current, non-motor loads, the purpose isn’t limited to just making the circuit; they are designed to both make and break the circuit as part of turning the load on and off. Proper ratings and arc suppression are important, but the fundamental function includes breaking the circuit as well as making it.