Understand the difference.

Compare the meaning, drawing context and source references of two entries. A similar graphic or shared abbreviation does not establish equivalence.

M

Symbols

Three-phase motor

A motor representation identifies an electrical machine operating as a load in the stated system arrangement. Connection count, motor type and additional winding or rotor detail can change the representation. Its nameplate and equipment schedule provide the selected machine data.

Drawing use

SLD / Schematic

Application

Power distribution

Reference family

IEC / IEEE / ANSI

A distinction that matters

A contactor switches the motor circuit. Motor protection and short-circuit interruption may be provided by additional specified equipment.

Full referenceAdd to legend

KM

Symbols

Contactor

A contactor uses an operating mechanism to switch its main contacts and may include auxiliary contacts for control or indication. On a power drawing it represents the main switching path; on a schematic its coil and contacts may be distributed and connected by identifiers.

Drawing use

SLD / Schematic

Application

Control circuits

Reference family

IEC / IEEE / ANSI

A distinction that matters

A contactor and circuit breaker have different duties. Adding an overload relay does not make every contactor assembly equivalent to a circuit breaker.

Full referenceAdd to legend

Original educational previews. Follow the source references on each full entry for the appropriate standard or selected product.