What is the minimum voltage required for the batteries to close the contractor?

In the context of aircraft electrical systems, specifically for the Dassault Falcon 7X, it's crucial to understand that the operational voltages for various components are designed to ensure reliability and efficiency. The contractor, or contactor, in this scenario is a type of relay used to manage high-power circuits such as those that control engine systems and other critical electrical loads.

The minimum voltage required to close the contactor ensures that it can receive enough electrical input to function correctly. If the voltage is set too low, the contactor may fail to engage, which could result in critical failures during operations. A requirement of 18 volts indicates that the system is designed with a safety margin to account for voltage drops that may occur due to various factors, including resistance in the wiring and connectors, which can diminish the effective voltage under load.

Setting the minimum voltage at this level ensures reliability in performance, preventing any operational issues due to insufficient voltage. In contrast, values lower than this may not provide adequate energy to effectively engage the contactor, thus ensuring that the systems relying on it remain functional and safe throughout their operation. This particular design consideration is essential for maintaining aircraft safety and operational integrity.