Which rating is higher on a contactor, the FLA rating or the resistive rating?

In the context of contactors, the resistive rating is higher than the full-load amperage (FLA) rating. The FLA rating of a contactor indicates the maximum current that can flow through it when starting or running an electric motor under full load conditions. It considers the inrush current, temperature, and operational factors that can impact the device's performance.

On the other hand, the resistive rating is the maximum current that can be safely handled by the contactor when switching resistive loads, such as lighting or heating elements. This rating is typically higher because resistive loads do not produce inductive kickback or other effects that can stress the contactor to the same extent as motor loads.

Understanding these ratings is crucial for choosing the right contactor for various applications in commercial food equipment, ensuring the equipment operates safely and effectively under its expected load conditions.