Relays serve as interface components. They are used for different purposes. Relays can have advantages as well as disadvantages. Let’s look at them individually.
When it comes to switching, separating amplifying or multiplying relays, they are used for different purposes within industrial controls. They possess specific characteristics, and can be found in an array of kinds available on the market. Relays offer many advantages for both the users and the systems. They include:
Simple and efficient operation
The principle behind the operation that a relay switch operates on is simple. The current that flows across the sensor generates an electric field that draws an object and alters the switches’ contacts. This allows the control of the device remotely. Relays are activated by an extremely low voltage; however it is able to switch big circuits using a tiny amount of energy.
Circuit multiplication
Relays are able to switch multiple contacts at the same time. The same voltage could be used to perform more than four switching actions. Each output contact on relays is able to switch circuits for load switching using different current and voltage levels.
Galvanic isolation
Relays are ideal to provide safe galvanic isolation. Relays isolate the control circuit from load circuit. Even in the event of failures or flash-overs, flash-overs between the contact and coils are not common. Relays aren’t just an instrument for control, but also one of the safety devices.
Conversion of voltage
Relays permit low voltage signals to control larger loads. For instance an 24 V DC 10 mA signal may serve as a switch for to a 220 V AC 16 A load. The larger loads could be controlled by just a little energy.
Accessory options
The whole relay body is comprised of an interface relay that plugs into a socket, holder, or functional module. Each component has its own function which help to improve the effectiveness and efficiency of the relay.
For instance
A reliable contact protection circuit can extend the lifespan of contacts by 5-10 times over inductive loads that aren’t or are not properly protected. Freewheeling diodes are appropriate for this function.
Contact switching between DC or AC
Relays of all kinds are available for switching AC and DC loads. They can be utilized for both DC and AC systems to protect DC and AC equipment. In addition, they are available with a broad range of coil voltages and various functions that can be added as modules. Logistics and warehouses play a significant role in the estimation of the total cost. By using relays, you will be able to drastically reduce the cost of logistics. By using relays with multiple voltage inputs, you can cut down the size of your inventory.
Small size and low cost
The relays provide lower price with better performance and value by providing important functions within a space-saving housing. Despite the rising cost of raw materials they are cheap and effortlessly integrated in a range of circuits.
Connection to the terminal
There are a variety of sockets available for relays that can accommodate the demands of various scenarios, including those that require vibration. The design that is space-saving and the various connections terminal options optimize the panel’s installation. There are numerous terminal connections options, like spring, screw and fork-type.
Certain relays are specially specifically designed specifically for PCB mounting. However, you can connect wires directly to pins if you are careful to not melt the case made of plastic that houses the relay.
Easy to set up and troubleshoot
Relays are simple to install by snapping them onto a DIN-rail. It is also possible to utilize the jumper bar to make connecting more convenient. Troubleshooting generally requires the isolation or removal of the part, as well as setting up a bench for testing the operation. The majority of relay models come with a switch at the top that permits technicians to turn the contacts on and off even without power supply to the coil. It can be used to isolate issues on either the output or input side immediately, without the need for the removal of a single wire. removed.
Led indicator and test button
Relays display the position of the contacts using the use of an additional led. The state of the switch is apparent to anyone with a naked eyesight. A few types of relays come with an additional test button. If it is activated, the contacts function. Once it is released contact returns to original condition.
High resistance
Relays have a very high resistance to voltage fluctuations. With RC modules the voltage peak is compensated by the capacitor. Additionally, they can handle temporary overload on both the input and output side without loss of functionality.
Long-lasting and maintenance-free
No matter the application or conditions Maintenance and repairs are inevitable and should be performed regularly. Relays can significantly reduce the effort required. This makes the work simpler quicker, more efficient, affordable, and safe. The lifespan of an electrical quality relay is approximately one million cycles of operation. It’s longer than other devices for switching. However, in applications that require rapid switching the lifespan of the relay is reduced. It is important to take this into consideration.
Relays have disadvantages
Relays can have disadvantages for users and systems. They can be a problem for:
Contact wear
Because of their construction Relay modules are subject to electrical and mechanical wear and this should be considered as relay circuits are being set up.
Only used for applications that are low-current.
Relays can be used for controlling voltages ranging from 12 V to the 230 V range (generally) and also as switching currents ranging from 6- A and up A Therefore, they are not suitable for switching high currents, like contactors.
Humming
They create a lot of sound with the activation or deactivation. The noise could be alarming when you have a lot of relays within the automation panel.
The operation is slow and has a low speed
Relays are not able to switch quickly. The speed of operation of a relay is restricted because of the physical inertia that surrounds the device. The time of their response as well as switching cycle are slower than transistors.
Change in character as a result of age
The relay’s operation may be impaired due to the wear and tear of the parts as well as dust and pollution, resulting in false trips. As time goes on the springs as well as the parts inside the relay become weak.
Poor performance when working with high inrush voltages, as well as in microelectronic circuits
Relays are not able to withstand high currents of inrush as contactors can. The relay’s performance is reduced when switching high inrush currents.
The coil of a relay requires the current to be quite high for energize. The high consumption of the coil is one of the disadvantages in microelectronic circuits due to the fact that they aren’t able to drive them with a single circuit without additional circuitry.
Poor performance in vibration environments
Many relays are specifically designed specifically for industrial use and have high-performance ratings. The conditions in railway vehicles vary vastly from those of typical industrial applications however. The extreme vibration, the frequent, and extensive temperature cycles, as well as corrosion-prone, oily and damp environments are all stress factors that include relays. This could result in unsatisfactory results when relays from industrial are utilized in vehicles.