What is Relays ?

Blikai Electronics stands out among electronic components distributors, offering an extensive array of electronics relays catering to diverse applications. Our stock includes a wide range of electrical relay products, including drake relays, solid state relays, pen relays, idec relays, voltage-sensitive relays, texas relays, 12-volt time relays, interposing relays, automotive relays, rib relays, 5V relays, 24VAC relays, zwave relays, teledyne relays, radiator fan relays, z wave relays, mt sac relays, pump start relays, latching and non-latching relays, interface relays, and reed relays.

Waht is Electronics Relays ?

A relay functions as an electronically operated switch used to control the flow of current within an electrical circuit. Similar to a standard light switch, relays manage the power supply, turning it on or off by moving a switch lever. However, the key distinction lies in a relay's operation: it can be activated by an electrical circuit rather than manual pressing. Relays find diverse applications, especially in scenarios requiring isolation or when controlling a circuit with a low-power signal.

How Do Relays Work ?

All relays, regardless of their type (electromechanical or electronic) or intended use for signaling or high-power loads, share common subsystems and operational principles. The primary side of a relay translates an electrical input into an intermediate, non-electric signal. This non-electric signal then operates a switching element (secondary side), typically contacts, responsible for switching and carrying electrical current (output or load current). To ensure galvanic isolation between input and output circuits, relays utilize a non-electric signal bridging the primary and secondary sides.

Relays enable a single output to activate multiple circuits and functions, thereby cost-effectively managing high current capacities. In certain scenarios, relays can execute logic operations, such as toggling an output on/off based on a transient input.

When a switch can't handle high current or is controlled by an electronic circuit, switch circuits can manage relays. Factors like arcing and contact bouncing limit a switch's capacity to handle inrush current. To address exceptionally high inrush currents, high inrush relays become necessary. It's crucial to design and test applications meticulously to ensure that the peak inrush current doesn't exceed relay specifications. Careful attention during the design phase helps mitigate risks associated with high inrush currents.

Types of Relays

There are various specialized relay types tailored for specific applications, including contactors designed for high-power tasks.

Electromechanical Relay (EMR)

An electromechanical relay utilizes a physical moving arm triggered by a voltage applied to the relay coil. This arm connects contacts within the relay's output component, completing an electrical circuit to allow current flow. The physical components in these relays often produce an audible click, serving as an operational indicator.

Solid State Relay (SSR)

Unlike EMRs, solid state relays lack moving components, enhancing long-term reliability. SSRs employ semiconductor switching elements like thyristors, triacs, and diodes to transmit and energize the output signal. The input signal, when activated, functions as a switch allowing high-voltage signals to pass through the SSR's output components.

Signal Relays

These relays feature a secondary molded coil that provides excellent insulation between the coil and the contact. Signal relays, commonly used for switching current, often employ a c-contact construction. They can be utilized with both reflow and surface mount devices and offer reliable contact for loads under 2A in various industrial devices like machine tools, security devices, gaming machines, and more.

Automotive Relays

Designed to endure DC voltages and high-power conditions, automotive relays are essential components in vehicle systems, catering to passenger comfort, entertainment systems, and critical switching operations in various modules across vehicles, including passenger, engine, body control, powertrain, and more.

DC Power Relays

Utilizing an electromagnetic coil, these relays open or close a circuit for continuous power delivery. They contain an armature, spring, and contacts, and their function can be normally open (NO) or normally closed (NC), allowing for various circuit configurations.

MOS FET Relays

MOSFET relays employ semiconductor outputs and are known for their non-contact relay functions, widely used in semiconductor test equipment, measurement instruments, security systems, and signal switching applications.