Siemens 3RT2017-1BB41 — 5.5 kW Contactor Selection Guide

By Abdullah Zahid
12 min read
Siemens 3RT2017-1BB41 SIRIUS S00 power contactor 5.5 kW 24V DC coil three-phase motor control

Siemens 3RT2017-1BB41 Power Contactor, AC-3e/AC-3, 12 A, 5.5 kW at 400 V — Full Specifications and Selection Guide

When a three-phase motor contactor fails in production, the part number search happens fast and the margin for error is zero. The Siemens 3RT2017-1BB41 is a three-pole power contactor in the SIRIUS product line, rated at 12 A and 5.5 kW at 400 V under AC-3 duty, with a 24 V DC coil and a built-in 1 NO auxiliary contact — all in the compact S00 frame size. If you have already confirmed those parameters match your application, the fastest next step is to verify current stock.

If you have already confirmed this is the right part, check current pricing and availability at LeadTime.ca — ships worldwide.

Who Should Buy the 3RT2017-1BB41 — and Who Shouldn't

This contactor is the correct choice when all five of the following criteria are true for your application:

  • Your motor load falls under AC-3 or AC-3e duty — standard induction motor start and stop with no load current in the starting circuit
  • Motor power rating is at or below 5.5 kW at 400 V three-phase, with operational current at or below 12 A
  • Your control circuit runs on 24 V DC — PLC output, relay logic, or dedicated 24 V DC supply
  • Your main circuit requires three-pole switching for a three-phase motor
  • Screw terminal connection is acceptable for your field wiring with conductor cross-sections up to 4 mm²

If your motor exceeds 5.5 kW, your coil supply is 110 V AC or 230 V AC, or you need more than 1 NO auxiliary contact natively integrated, this is not the correct SKU — the variant comparison table below identifies the right alternatives with specific model numbers.

On this page:

What the Siemens 3RT2017-1BB41 Actually Does in a Motor Control Circuit

The 3RT2017-1BB41 is a power contactor — a remote-controlled electromechanical switch that connects and disconnects three-phase power to a motor load. When a 24 V DC signal is applied to the A1 and A2 coil terminals, the electromagnet closes the three main contacts (L1-T1, L2-T2, L3-T3), passing load current through to the motor. When the signal is removed, a spring return opens the contacts and the motor is de-energized. The built-in 1 NO auxiliary contact changes state simultaneously and is typically wired back to a PLC input for run-status confirmation.

In practical terms, this contactor is the switching element between your control logic and your motor. It does not provide motor protection on its own — overload protection must be added externally. What it provides is reliable, repeatable remote switching of three-phase loads at 12 A AC-3 rated current, in a frame compact enough to fit tightly spaced panel layouts. At approximately 0.305 kg and sized for the S00 frame, it is one of the smallest contactors in the SIRIUS line capable of handling 5.5 kW at 400 V.

The AC-3e designation extends the traditional AC-3 motor duty category with enhanced performance for frequent motor starting cycles. Both ratings apply to this model, and the contactor can be used interchangeably in either classification for induction motor applications.

Typical System Architecture: Where the 3RT2017-1BB41 Sits in Your Panel

The 3RT2017-1BB41 sits between the control logic layer and the motor load, acting as the high-current switching node that separates low-voltage control signals from three-phase line voltage.

  • Three-phase supply (400 V or 690 V AC) enters through a main disconnect circuit breaker on the line side
  • A thermal overload relay is typically mounted downstream of the contactor, in series between T1/T2/T3 and the motor terminals
  • The 3RT2017-1BB41 main contacts (L1-T1, L2-T2, L3-T3) carry the full motor load current during run
  • The 24 V DC coil (A1/A2) receives its switching signal from a PLC discrete output, relay, or manual control switch
  • The 1 NO auxiliary contact returns a run-confirmation signal to the PLC input or indicator lamp circuit

Industries and Applications Where This Contactor Is the Right Call

HVAC systems represent one of the highest-volume use cases for this contactor. Three-phase fan motors in air handling units — typically in the 3 kW to 5.5 kW range at 400 V — are switched on and off by building management system (BMS) outputs or thermostat logic. The 24 V DC coil makes direct integration with BMS PLC outputs straightforward, and the S00 frame fits into the compact enclosures common in packaged HVAC equipment.

Pump stations for water circulation, cooling loops, and supply systems use this model for its reliable start-stop performance under moderate duty cycling. A single 3RT2017-1BB41 per motor in a multi-pump sequencing panel is a standard configuration in water treatment and building services.

Conveyor drive motors in manufacturing and packaging lines are a natural fit. The contactor integrates cleanly into machine automation panels where a PLC output directly drives the coil, and the 1 NO auxiliary contact feeds the motor run status back into the controller for interlock and safety logic.

Compressor motor switching in air handling and refrigeration applications uses this contactor for moderate-duty start-stop cycles, often coordinated with pressure switch feedback to prevent rapid cycling. Machine automation panels — for small CNC machines, textile equipment, and printing systems — embed the 3RT2017-1BB41 as the motor switching element for spindle or table drive motors in the 3 kW to 5.5 kW class.

Application Typical Deployment
HVAC fan motor control BMS PLC output to 24 V DC coil; three-phase fan motor at 400 V, 3–5.5 kW
Pump station automation One contactor per pump in sequenced multi-pump panel; moderate start-stop duty
Conveyor drive control PLC discrete output to coil; auxiliary contact for run-status feedback to controller
Compressor motor switching Pressure switch interlocked with coil control; integrated into air handling unit panel
Machine automation panel Spindle or table motor switching; PLC-controlled with auxiliary contact to input module

Specifications Engineers Use to Make the Purchase Decision

Specification Value
AC-3 operational current 12 A
AC-3 power rating at 400 V 5.5 kW
AC-3 power rating at 690 V 5.5 kW
AC-1 operational current at 400 V 22 A
Maximum operating voltage 690 VAC
Coil voltage 24 V DC
Main contact configuration 3 NO, 0 NC (three-pole)
Auxiliary contacts (integrated) 1 NO
Operating temperature -25 to +60°C
Terminal block conductor capacity Up to 4 mm²

Full technical specifications are available on the product page at LeadTime.ca.

3RT2017-1BB41 vs. Other SIRIUS Frame Sizes: Which One Do You Actually Need?

Model Frame Size AC-3 Current Power at 400 V Coil Voltage Best For
3RT2017-1BB41 S00 12 A 5.5 kW 24 V DC Light-to-mid motors, compact panels
3RT2016-1BB41 S00 9 A 4 kW 24 V DC Smaller light-duty motors
3RT2018-1BB41 S00 16 A 7.5 kW 24 V DC Slightly larger motor loads
3RT2024-1BB41 S0 12 A (S0 class) Up to larger ratings 24 V DC Higher cycle or expanded auxiliary needs
3RT2017-1BH41 S00 12 A 5.5 kW 110 V AC Same motor load, 110 V AC control circuit

If your control architecture runs on 24 V DC and your motor load sits at or below 5.5 kW at 400 V, the 3RT2017-1BB41 is the correct choice — check current availability at LeadTime.ca.

Expert Verdict: Honest Assessment and Procurement Reality

The 3RT2017-1BB41 earns its place as a workhorse contactor in the SIRIUS range because it hits the right combination of rating, form factor, and control compatibility for the largest segment of industrial motor applications — sub-5.5 kW three-phase loads controlled by PLC outputs. The S00 frame size reduces panel footprint compared to larger contactors, the 24 V DC coil maps directly onto standard PLC discrete output modules without additional isolation relays, and the integrated 1 NO auxiliary contact covers the run-status feedback requirement in the majority of simple motor starter circuits without adding a contact block module. The rated mechanical life of approximately 200,000 cycles at AC-4 duty, combined with a T1 proof-test interval of 20 years per IEC 61508, puts planned maintenance on a long horizon for moderate-cycle applications. Compliance with IEC 60947-4-1 and CE marking means this part is accepted across industrial specifications globally without sourcing friction.

Where this contactor reaches its limits is equally clear. If your motor exceeds 5.5 kW at 400 V, or if your system operates at AC-6a (slip-ring) or AC-5a (capacitor discharge) duty, this model is not appropriate — size up to an S2 or S3 frame variant. If your control panel runs on 110 V AC or 230 V AC rather than 24 V DC, a different coil variant is required. And if your control logic needs 2 NO + 2 NC auxiliary contacts natively, you will need to add a 3RH29 series contact block or specify a model with broader integrated auxiliary capacity. None of these are hidden limitations — they are exactly what the catalog number structure is designed to communicate, which is why wrong-coil-voltage orders remain the most common sourcing error for this family.

On the procurement side, this is an active, stocked SKU in the SIRIUS product line — not an end-of-life or slow-moving part. Lead times through distributor stock are typically in the 1–4 week range, and emergency replacement scenarios are generally serviceable through expedited shipping channels. Volume orders of 10 units or more typically qualify for pricing considerations. If you are building out a panel or replacing multiple units, consolidating the order makes sense. View current stock and pricing at LeadTime.ca to confirm availability before committing to your build schedule.

For volume pricing or to confirm lead time before committing to a build, contact the LeadTime.ca team directly — we ship worldwide.

Wiring and Installation: What to Verify Before You Connect

  • Mount on a 35 mm DIN rail (TS 35/7.5 or equivalent); confirm rail profile before installation as the S00 frame clip is sized specifically for this standard
  • Main circuit terminals L1, L2, L3 (line side) and T1, T2, T3 (load side) accept conductors up to 4 mm² — verify your field wiring gauge is within this range before stripping conductors
  • Control coil terminals A1 (positive 24 V DC) and A2 (negative/ground) must be connected to a fused 24 V DC supply; confirm the supply is protected and the PLC output is rated to drive the coil inrush
  • The 1 NO auxiliary contact terminals are separate from the main circuit — wire to PLC input or indicator as needed; verify contact continuity changes state when coil is energized before closing the panel
  • If inductive kick-back suppression is required, add a suppression diode across the coil (cathode to A1, anode to A2) or a varistor rated for 24 V transient suppression — the contactor itself does not include built-in coil suppression

Auxiliary Contact Expansion and Compatible Modules

The 3RT2017-1BB41 includes one 1 NO auxiliary contact as standard. For applications requiring additional feedback or interlock signals, the SIRIUS system supports snap-on contact block expansion. The following modules are compatible with the S00 frame:

  • 3RH2911 series auxiliary contact blocks — add 2 NO + 2 NC contacts for more complex interlock or feedback logic without replacing the contactor
  • 3RH29 series contact blocks — side-mount options for lateral panel configurations where front-mount blocks interfere with adjacent components
  • Surge suppression modules (coil side) — varistor or RC-type suppressors designed to snap onto the coil connector area for installations where inductive kick-back protection is required at the device level

Wrong-Part Prevention Checklist Before You Order

Before placing your order for the 3RT2017-1BB41, verify each of the following against your application requirements and motor nameplate data:

  1. Verify control voltage is 24 V DC, not 110 V AC, 230 V AC, or other coil variants in the SIRIUS range
  2. Confirm motor load is in AC-3 (induction motor start/stop) duty; do not use for AC-6a (slip-ring motor control)
  3. Check that 5.5 kW at 400 V three-phase matches your motor nameplate power and voltage
  4. Ensure main conductor cross-section (up to 4 mm²) is compatible with your field wiring gauge
  5. Verify screw terminal block is acceptable for your termination method (not a DIN connector variant)
  6. Check that 1 NO auxiliary contact is sufficient; if 2 NO + 2 NC needed, order the contact block module separately
  7. Confirm operating temperature range (-25 to +60°C) suits your panel environment
  8. Verify motor starting frequency and operating cycle (approx. 200,000 cycles at AC-4 ratings); light-duty intermittent or frequent start-stop applications may require uprating

If all eight checks pass, you have the right part. Confirm stock and place your order at LeadTime.ca — or contact us directly if you need a volume quote or have a specific delivery requirement.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a 110 V AC or 230 V AC supply to drive the coil on the 3RT2017-1BB41?

No. The coil on this specific model is rated for 24 V DC only. Applying a different voltage to the A1/A2 terminals will either fail to engage the contactor or damage the coil. Siemens offers separate catalog numbers in the SIRIUS 3RT20 family for 110 V AC and 230 V AC coil variants — those are distinct SKUs and must be ordered specifically for your control circuit voltage.

Does the integrated 1 NO auxiliary contact cover most applications, or do I almost always need to add a block?

For straightforward motor starter circuits — where the only feedback signal needed is a run-confirmation input to a PLC — the single 1 NO contact is sufficient. If your control logic requires interlock signals, fault feedback, or parallel indication circuits that demand more than one contact, you will need a 3RH29 series contact block add-on. Review your control logic before ordering to avoid a second trip to the parts shelf.

What happens if I connect a 7.5 kW motor to a 3RT2017-1BB41?

The contactor will operate initially but the AC-3 current rating of 12 A will be exceeded under normal motor load. Over time, coil current increases beyond design limits, thermal stress accelerates contact wear, and mechanical life is significantly shortened. For motor loads above 5.5 kW at 400 V, select a larger SIRIUS frame size — the 7.5 kW rating falls within the S00 frame 3RT2018 series or requires an S0 frame depending on the specific current draw.

Is the screw terminal suitable for aluminum conductors, or is copper required?

Aluminum conductors can be used, but require additional preparation. Apply anti-oxidation paste to the conductor before insertion and apply tighter torque control to prevent loosening over thermal cycles. Aluminum conductors are softer and more prone to cold-flow under screw pressure, which can cause terminal resistance to increase over time. Copper conductors are the simpler and more reliable choice at this current rating.

How do I protect the 3RT2017-1BB41 coil from inductive kick-back when the PLC output switches off?

Add a suppression diode — a 1N4007 or equivalent — wired across the coil terminals with the cathode connected to A1 (positive 24 V DC) and the anode to A2. A varistor (MOV rated for 24 V transients) across the coil is also effective. Without suppression, the inductive kick generated when the coil de-energizes can produce voltage spikes that stress PLC output transistors and reduce their service life over time.

Does the 3RT2017-1BB41 include built-in motor overload protection?

No. The contactor provides remote switching only — it does not include motor overload protection, short-circuit protection, or any protective function for the motor. A thermal overload relay must be installed downstream of the contactor on the motor terminals, and a main disconnect circuit breaker must be installed on the line side. The 24 V DC control circuit should also be protected with a fused supply rated appropriately for the control circuit load.

Why Order the 3RT2017-1BB41 From LeadTime.ca

  • Ships worldwide — no geographic restriction on orders, including urgent replacement shipments
  • Specializes in sourcing industrial automation components including SIRIUS contactor family parts that may be slow to appear in general distribution channels
  • Volume pricing available for orders of 10 or more units — contact the team before placing a large order
  • Direct response for lead time confirmation before you commit to a panel build schedule
  • Single-source capability for contactor plus compatible accessories (contact blocks, overload relays, circuit breakers)

At-a-Glance Summary

  • Model: Siemens 3RT2017-1BB41 — SIRIUS power contactor, Size S00 frame
  • AC-3 rated current: 12 A; AC-3 power rating: 5.5 kW at 400 V and 5.5 kW at 690 V
  • AC-1 operational current at 400 V: 22 A for non-inductive loads
  • Coil voltage: 24 V DC — compatible with standard PLC discrete output modules
  • Main contacts: 3 NO, 0 NC (three-pole); Auxiliary contact: 1 NO integrated
  • Terminal capacity: up to 4 mm² for both main circuit and control conductors
  • Operating temperature range: -25 to +60°C; storage range: -55 to +80°C
  • Mechanical life: approximately 200,000 operating cycles at AC-4 duty
  • T1 proof-test interval: 20 years per IEC 61508 functional safety standard
  • Weight: approximately 0.305 kg; DIN rail mounting on 35 mm TS 35/7.5 rail
  • Standards compliance: IEC 60947-4-1; CE marked; UL and CSA certifications available for specified variants
  • Does not include motor overload protection — external thermal overload relay and circuit breaker are required