Relays are electrical parts which are commonly used in the majority of circuits and electrical systems. Like all components that is used, relays come with distinct advantages and disadvantages when utilized in the electrical circuit or system. In this article, we’ll review the benefits relays can provide, as well as we will look at their disadvantages.
Let’s begin by taking the time to look at the benefits a switch relay provides:
Relays perform many different functions when they are part of the electrical network or system. A few of the jobs they perform could require switching or separation, amplification or increasing.
Its Operation is Simple
If you are learning the operation of a relay, or setting it up, the process is easy. The current flowing from the power source is used to operate the relay’s coil which creates an electric field which attracts an internal lever that turns the contacts. Relays are typically controlled using low currents, but they can manage larger circuits only using the low levels of current.
Separation and isolation of circuits
Relays guarantee secure protection between the control circuit as well as the load circuits in certain situations. Relays are utilized to separate between the circuit that controls circuits that have an element of load. They are not only an instrument for controlling and monitoring, but they are also employed for safety purposes.
Small in Size
Relays are usually small components which can fit into a variety of controls and panels. Instead of having a variety of coils and contacts, relays combine all this into a single unit consisting of the base and the relay. Sometimes, these relays can be interchangeable since they can be connected to the base.
Easy to troubleshoot
Relays are extremely simple to test and carry out tests for faults. The wiring diagram of a relay can either be found printed on the side of the relay or in the operation/installation manual. Since relays are low-cost components, they can be easily replaced in order to avoid them as a cause of concern. A button could also be situated on the top of the relay that can be used to operate the relay’s contacts.
Control Of more than one component
Relays can be utilized in systems to manage up to four various switching functions. They are able to switch multiple contacts over at the same time. This also reduces space and provides more options for creating an electrical circuit. The relay’s output contacts could be employed to turn off various components or load circuits which may be of different current or voltage levels.
Low-Cost Components
Relays are generally inexpensive electrical components. Because of their cost and easy use, relays are used in an array of electronic circuits as well as systems.
Ease Of Installation
Relays are very simple electronic components to put in. The majority of relays and relay bases can be positioned on DIN rails. Certain types of relays are interchangeable, which means that if the coil or contacts fail, the relay is able to be replaced without disconnecting wires.
Easy Cable Termination
Relays usually have a variety of different methods for cable termination. There are a variety of options, which include screws, forks and spring-style methods for termination. The method of termination used on the majority of relays is secure and shields cables from falling out when placed in areas that are prone to vibrations. Relays designed for use on PCBs come with pins that can be connected into the boards.
It is possible to switch between AC or DC
Relays are able for switching AC as well as DC loads based on the specifications and nature of the relay.
Relays have a long life span
Relays typically have longer lifespans and do not require replacement on a frequent basis. If your relay needs to be changed often, it could indicate a fault with the circuit, or it may be the wrong relay for the task. A typical life expectancy of a relay ranges from 1 to 1.5 million cycles.
The ability to offer multi-voltage inputs is available.
Relays are able to provide multiple voltage inputs, which means that a variety of inputs can be applied to the exact relay. This could reduce the quantity of stock and cause confusion for those replacing defective components. There are a variety of voltage input levels is available for relays.
Amplification of Voltage
Relays can operate with low levels of voltage and can be used to control circuits that have larger voltage levels. A good example is an AC relay with a voltage of 24 V. It can be used to regulate an electrical circuit that has an AC load of 230 V within it.
Contact Operation is Visible
Certain relays have LEDs on them that show whether the contacts are switched on or not. It’s also apparent simply by taking a look at the relay, however the use of LEDs helps in this process. A test button is often located on top of the relay that can be used to control the contacts when it is pressed.
Maintenance Free
Relays are electrical devices which require no maintenance. Once they are connected to a circuit or system they are able to sit and work repeatedly.
The disadvantages of relays
Relays can also have drawbacks in addition to the many advantages they provide. Some of the most well-known negatives include:
Contacts wear out over time
A relay is an amalgamation of mechanical and electrical components. As with all moving mechanical parts over time, they’ll wear out. It is important to take this into account when determining faults or creating the circuit.
Low Operating Speed
Relays ‘ operation speed is typically very slow when compared with other components like transistors. This is because they require mechanical motion that takes time.
Could be affected by environmental Factors
The environmental factors like dust, water, or pollution can have a significant impact on the lifespan of relays. Relays must be stored in dust- and water-tight enclosures where they won’t be exposed to these elements. Ingress of water or dust can cause a significant impact on the springs as well as internal parts of the relay.
Relays Can Generate Noise
Some relays with larger designs can create some noise as the contacts change. However, this is not an issue for smaller relays which are situated in electrical panels.
Relays Are Only Suitable in circuits that use low Currents
The maximum working voltage that a relay operates at typically is around 12 V the 230-volt range. They typically manage current levels that vary in the range of 6- A up to about 15 A.
It is not able to be exposed to levels of Extreme Vibrations or Temperatures.
The effectiveness of a relay could be significantly affected by high levels of vibrating and temperature, or when used in situations where it will be exposed to oil or grease. Relays of high-quality should be utilized in these situations since they have greater overall performance.
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