Protection

Schaltbau C303: The Best Compact Bi-Directional DC Contactor for High-Power Switching

Written by Galco | Aug 19, 2025
Schaltbau has unveiled the C303 series, a 1-pole bi-directional DC NO contactor designed for demanding high-power applications. Rated for up to 1,500 V insulation voltage and capable of handling continuous currents up to 500 A, the C303 is built to ensure safe, efficient, and reliable switching in DC circuits, battery storage systems, EV charging stations, and test benches. 


What sets the C303 apart? This compact, high-performance DC contactor offers full bi-directionality, meaning it can safely disconnect high power loads — up to 1.5 MW — regardless of the current direction. Whether used in charging or discharging applications, the C303 ensures safe operation without the risk of contacts welding, even under high short-circuit conditions. 

Key Features & Benefits

Up to 25 Percent Energy Cost Savings

The C303's permanently low contact resistance minimizes energy loss and reduces heating, requiring less cooling and improving overall efficiency. 

Full Bi-Directional Switching – V2G Ready 

With its specially designed arc extinguishing chamber, the C303 safely disconnects power in both charging and discharging cycles, making it ideal for vehicle-to-grid (V2G) systems and energy recovery applications.

Safe High-Power Breaking – Up to 1.5 MW

The innovative main contact system delivers exceptional breaking capacity under full load, ensuring safety in DC energy storage and distribution systems.

Explosion-Proof, Maintenance-Free Operation

Using permanent magnetic arc extinguishing, the C303 eliminates the need for gas encapsulation, preventing overheating and overpressure risks while improving operational safety.

Compact, Industry-Optimized Design

Built for industrial applications, the C303 features a space-saving footprint, making it easy to integrate into compact systems where larger contactors won't fit.

High Availability & System Longevity

Its robust construction ensures a long service life, reducing maintenance costs and maximizing uptime in mission-critical applications.

Enhanced Safety Compliance

The C303 includes a mirror contact for safe switching feedback, meeting IEC 60947-4-1, Annex F safety requirements. 

Three C303 Variants for Maximum Flexibility

Schaltbau offers three C303 versions, each designed for specific application needs:

Applications: Where the C303 Excels  

The C303 series is built for high-performance DC switching and is ideal for applications that demand reliable power control, safety, and efficiency. 

Battery Storage Systems and Stationary Energy Storage

  • Safely manages charging and discharging cycles
  • Ensures galvanic isolation of battery poles from the powertrain
  • Prevents contact welding, enhancing system safety 

EV DC Charging Stations and Vehicle-to-Grid (V2G) Systems 

  • Supports bidirectional energy flow for charging and grid integration
  • Delivers reliable high-power switching under load 

Battery Test Benches and Regenerative Systems 

  • Provides safe, repeatable switching in high-current DC test environments
  • Handles high making currents without damage 

Why Choose the Schaltbau C303? 

With its compact footprint, energy efficiency, full bi-directionality, and high-power switching capability, the C303 series is the perfect solution for demanding DC applications. Whether for EV infrastructure, energy storage, or industrial DC systems, Schaltbau delivers cutting-edge reliability with the C303 contactor. 

Ready to Integrate the C303 into Your System? 

Call 800-575-5562 today or visit us to learn more about Schaltbau's C303 bi-directional contactor! 

Our solutions experts are ready to assist you!