Relays
WHAT ARE RELAYS?
A relay is electromechanical switching device that uses a coil to generate a magnetic force to mechanically operate
an electric contact. When a small electrical current is applied to a relay, it can switch on a much larger current in the
application it is being used in. Contactors operate in the same way as relays, but are used in higher-power applications.
Solid state relays operate in a different way, using a semiconductor based switch.
IN-THE-KNOW TARGET MARKETS
• Relays are used in applications in almost every market, from industrial control to • Communications
automotive. • Industrial
• Trends in home automation, electric vehicles, alternative energy, and harsh • Automotive
environment applications all drive the need for relays and contactors with high
• Aerospace and Defense
switching capabilities, reliable operation, and extended contact life, all while
meeting various protocol and system security requirements. • Appliances
• As demand for product performance increases and equipment size and weight • Marine
becomes smaller, the importance of different mounting styles and high current • Energy
and switching capacities becomes more critical in product design. Reinforced
insulation, high mechanical endurance, and lower power consumption are • Lighting
all necessary to ensure competitive performance and a high degree of relay • Rail
reliability.
• Intelligent Building
• TE offers standardized relay solutions to help design customer continuity,
convenience, and cost requirements.
• TE’s product development engineers have a comprehensive understanding APPLICATIONS
of relay requirements in all of the end markets and applications described • Robotics
above. Our broad offering of relays and contactors are designed to satisfy the • Control panels
diverse needs of these markets. Whether you need commercial off-the-shelf
products, components that must meet stringent military specifications or highly • Safety systems
specialized, custom-designed products, look to TE to meet your requirements. • Engines
• Fuel supply systems
DESIGN NAVIGATOR • Wind turbines
The Relays Selection Guide provides guidance to help virtually any customer • White goods
select the most appropriate relay for their application, regardless of their market
• Missile and defense
or industry focus. The design navigator section of the guide displays key attributes
to consider when selecting a relay including number of poles, current and voltage • Solar power
ratings or contact configuration. • Elevators and Escalators
• In what industry is your application?
Key • How many different loads will you be switching with your relay?
Questions • Will you be using AC or DC voltage to control the relay?
• How will you be mounting the relay?
to Ask
• What switching capability does the relay require?
Your • Does your application require durable performance in a harsh environment?
Customers • Are there space constraints in the application?
• Does your application require products that meet certain industry standards?
© 2017 TE Connectivity Ltd. family of companies. All Rights Reserved. TE Connectivity, TE and the TE connectivity (logo) are trademarks.
