ABB ESB & GAF Contactors

ESB: installation loads

ESB installation contactors switch single-phase or three-phase loads in buildings and installations. Lighting, heating and motor loads place different demands on contacts. Select the exact device by load type and the applicable utilization-category rating, rather than using one headline current for every application.

ABB’s installation-contactor catalogue distinguishes contact arrangements and coil-voltage options. AC/DC control is available on specified versions; it is not a statement that every old ESB reference accepts any AC or DC voltage. Confirm pole arrangement, normally open/closed contacts, control supply and mounting dimensions.

GAF: DC power switching

ABB’s GAF brochure describes DC switching contactors with ratings dependent on operating voltage, DC duty, load time constant and the specified contact connection. Its published high-voltage DC configurations use defined series-contact arrangements. Do not infer the permissible wiring or rating from the number of poles or transfer a single GAF rating to the whole list.

IEC DC-1 ratings and cULus general-purpose ratings in that document have different conditions. Confirm the required standard, voltage, current, ambient temperature, conductors and complete control-voltage code for the actual reference.

Selection and historical references

• Identify ESB installation duty or GAF DC power duty first; the two families are not interchangeable by current alone.
• Provide load type, voltage, operating current, inrush or starting duty and switching frequency.
• Specify the coil/control supply separately from the main circuit, including AC/DC and frequency where applicable.
• Confirm contact arrangement, auxiliary contacts, installation space, terminals and required accessories against the exact model.
• Check protection and coordination of the complete circuit, environmental conditions and the applicable regional documentation.

The table and existing model examples retain historical references. Parameters, approvals or family relationships not established for the full code remain subject to verification; no discontinuation, replacement or compatibility claim is made.

Information for quotation

Send the full model, ABB code, quantity and destination country. Include the load and main/control circuit details, contact configuration and required standards. For existing equipment, provide nameplate photos, wiring and installation dimensions.

Browse Contactors & Motor Starters, AF contactors, or Contact. Official technical references: ABB installation contactors catalogue and ABB GAF DC switching brochure. The existing GAF download remains available below.