How do A contacts function in relation to a circuit breaker?

A contacts in a circuit breaker are designed to function in tandem with the open or closed state of the breaker itself. When the circuit breaker is closed, the A contacts are also closed, allowing current to flow through the circuit. Conversely, when the circuit breaker is opened, the A contacts also switch to the open position, interrupting the current flow. This relationship ensures that the A contacts effectively reflect the condition of the breaker, making them essential for the proper functionality of the electrical system.

This design prevents scenarios where the circuit could be inadvertently energized even when the breaker is open, which could pose safety hazards. Thus, the integrity of the system relies on the fact that the state of the A contacts mirrors that of the circuit breaker.