In today’s industrial and commercial landscapes, the reliable operation of electrical equipment is paramount. One essential component that plays a critical role in protecting electrical motors and associated machinery is the overload protection relay. This article explores the function, types, applications, and importance of overload protection relays in electrical systems.
What is an Overload Protection Relay? An overload protection relay is a device designed to detect electrical overload conditions in motors and circuits. It monitors the current flowing through the equipment and compares it against predefined thresholds. When the current exceeds these limits, the relay activates protective measures, typically by disconnecting the power supply to prevent damage to the motor or associated machinery. How Does It Work? The operational principle of overload protection relays can be understood through a series of steps： Current Measurement： The relay continuously measures the operating current of an electric motor using built-in sensors or external current transformers.