Difference Between Contactor and Relay
A contactor joins 2 poles together, without a common circuit between them, while a relay has a common contact that connects to a neutral position. Additionally, contactors are commonly rated for up to 1000V, while relays are usually rated to only 250V.
Why use a relay instead of a contactor?Relays are switching devices used in any control circuit for checking a condition or multiplying the number of contacts available. Contactors are switching devices used to control power flow to any load.