Relays are switches that open and close circuits electromechanically or electronically. Relays control one electrical circuit by opening and closing contacts in another circuit.
An automotive relay is an electronic or electromechanical controlled switch that is designed for direct current voltages. Automotive relay automates the power to switch electrical circuits on and off under certain specified conditions.
What does relay do?
Relays are generally used to switch smaller currents in a control circuit. Relays can "control" larger voltages and amperes by having an amplifying effect because a small voltage applied to a relay's coil can result in a large voltage being switched by the contacts.
Protective relays can prevent equipment damage by detecting electrical abnormalities, including overcurrent, undercurrent, overloads and reverse currents. In addition, relays are also widely used to switch starting coils, heating elements, pilot lights and audible alarms.
Protective relays can prevent equipment damage by detecting electrical abnormalities, including overcurrent, undercurrent, overloads and reverse currents. In addition, relays are also widely used to switch starting coils, heating elements, pilot lights and audible alarms.
Ref: Galco, available at: https://www.galco.com/comp/prod/relay.htm (Accessed June 2022)