A relay is an electronically operated switch that is remotely activated by an electromagnet which pulls a set of contacts to either make or break a circuit. Electrical relays are commonly used for switching signals, radio frequencies, high current circuits when using a lower current circuit, and loads such as resistive, motor, lamp, inductive, and capacitive applications. This is helpful when an in-line switch or existing circuit does not have the capacity to handle the required current.

Functions of Relays

  • Galvanic separation of the primary or actuating circuit and load circuits
  • Single-input/multiple-output capability
  • Separation of different load circuits for multi-pole relays
  • Separation of AC and DC circuits
  • Interface between electronic and power circuits
  • Multiple switching operations – time delay, signal condition, among others

What is a relay used for?

At TE, we manufacture one of the broadest ranges of relay types, including automotive high-voltage relaysautomotive high-current relays, latching (bi-stable) relays and non-latching (monostable) relays, plug-in relays, reed relays, and solid state relays, also known as SSRs.

 

Our electromechanical relays are typically used for – among many other applications – electrical isolation, controlling power in manufacturing and transportation applications, and for switching smaller current values in a control circuit, such as in building automation technology and control panels. Relays serve as an amplifier.

 

The types of relays in our portfolio include switching solutions from our brands, including AGASTATAxicomCII, DRI Relays (DRI)HARTMANKILOVACKISSLINGOEGPotter and Brumfield, and SCHRACK.