Relays are important circuit control devices widely used in industrial equipment, home automation, and other electrical equipment. To ensure its stable operation and safe use, correct installation steps and operating methods are crucial. This guide will take you to a detailed understanding of how to install relays safely and efficiently.
Why install a relay?
Realize low-power control and high-power equipment
Relays can control the operation of high-power equipment through low-power signals. Many control systems themselves can only output small currents or voltages and cannot directly drive high-power devices such as motors, lamps, or heaters. Relays convert low-power signals into the ability to control high-power devices through their internal electromagnetic mechanisms, thereby achieving efficient and safe control.
Protection and control equipment
Relays can isolate control circuits and load circuits. Through this electrical isolation, control equipment (such as PLCs, microcontrollers, or switches) can avoid direct impact from high voltage or high current, thereby extending the service life of the equipment and reducing the risk of failure caused by overload or short circuit.
Enhance the control capability of the system
Relays can implement complex control logic. For example, by combining relays, functions such as delayed start, logic control, and time control can be achieved to meet diverse automation control needs
Common types of relays
| Type | Working Principle | Advantages | Applications |
|---|
| Electromagnetic Relay | Uses a magnetic field generated by a coil to drive switch actions | Simple structure, fast response, cost-effective | Industrial automation control, home appliances |
| Solid-State Relay | Controls circuit switching through electronic components like SCRs or power transistors | No mechanical parts, durable, suitable for high-frequency operations | Precision instruments, smart home systems |
| Thermal Relay | Relies on the heating of thermal elements to drive mechanical switches, commonly for overload protection | Excellent overload protection, suitable for motor protection | Motor protection, heating devices |
| Time Relay | Controls circuit switching time through preset delay settings | Accurate timing control, ideal for delay operations | Production line equipment, lighting systems |
| Power Relay | Designed to control high-power circuits and handle large currents | Suitable for high-current, high-power equipment control | Power transmission, heavy industrial machinery |
| Pulse Relay | Switches states upon receiving a pulse signal, maintaining its state until the next pulse | Low power consumption, long-term state retention | Lighting switches, electrical control panels |
| Bistable Relay | Switches between two stable states, requiring no continuous current to maintain the state | Highly energy-efficient, ideal for long-term operational states | Power switching systems, remote control |
Preparation before installing the relay
1. Check the circuit diagram and work requirements: Understand the purpose and wiring method of the relay.
2. Collect necessary tools such as screwdrivers, multimeters, and electrical tape.
3. Familiar with relay specifications and parameters: Select the appropriate relay based on the operating voltage and load.
4. Ensure that the circuit is completely powered off. And there is no external interference
Detailed explanation of relay installation steps
1.Determine installation location
Choose a well ventilated and easily wired location to ensure that the relay is not affected by overheating during use, and to facilitate subsequent maintenance and debugging.
2.Connect the power cord and control cord
Connect the power and control lines accurately according to the requirements of the circuit diagram. Ensure that each cable joint is secure and not loose, and label the purpose of each wire according to regulations to avoid misconnection.
3.Fixed relay
Use appropriate screws or fixing devices to securely install the relay onto the designated bracket. Ensure that the installation position is stable to avoid loosening due to vibration or improper operation.
4.Power up test
Power up after installation, and test the function. Check if the relay works well, such as whether the switch operation is sensitive and whether the connection is stable or not. In the case of an abnormal condition, turn it off right away, and check for and eliminate the faults.
Through these steps, we can install relays very well. If you want to purchase high-performance relays, you can visit our product page or contact us for more information
Example of Installing a 12V Automotive Relay
Firstly, it is necessary to understand the terminals of the relay
Relay terminals:
30: High current load end, usually connected to battery power supply.
87: The output power terminal of the relay controls the "switching circuit" of the equipment.
85 and 86: The control terminals of the relay, one grounded and the other connected to the switching power supply.
Below, I will provide a video to give you a more detailed explanation, hoping it can be helpful to you
Common installation errors and their solutions
- Wiring error: Check the circuit diagram carefully to make sure every wire is connected to the correct terminal without connecting to a wrong position.
- Insufficient current: Measure the current with a multimeter and confirm whether it can meet the requirement of the equipment. If the current is not big enough, it is suggested to find a higher power relay to replace it.
- Unstable fixation: it should be installed and fixed appropriately by using screws or even rubber pads in order to avoid any kind of vibration or loosening.
Summarize
Relays, as important electrical components, are widely used in various automation control systems. It can control high-power devices through low-power signals, thereby improving the efficiency, safety, and functionality of the circuit.
Correctly installing relays can not only ensure the normal operation of equipment, but also prevent electrical accidents from occurring.In installation, the type of relay that is to be used should be decided according to different uses, and preparation shall be done in the right way. During wiring, correctness and steadiness are required.
Aging relay examination and cleaning should also be done regularly. Now, these old relays that needed an update can be replaced by QIANJI relays. QIANJI is a professional relay factory with several kinds of high-quality and low-priced relays.
FAQ
How to choose the appropriate specifications for relays?
Select relays based on load current, voltage, and control signals.
What grounding issues should be noted during installation?
Ensure that the grounding terminal of the relay is correctly connected to avoid the risk of leakage.
Is security testing necessary?
Necessary safety testing can ensure the reliability and stability of relay installation.
Can old relays be reused?
Old relays may have hidden dangers, it is recommended to use brand new products.
What should be noted when installing multiple relays?
Ensure the spacing between each relay to prevent heat accumulation.
Is solid-state relay better than electromagnetic relay?
Solid state relays are more suitable for high-frequency and silent applications, while electromagnetic relays are suitable for high current control.
