How does an electromagnetic relay work?

An electromagnetic relay works by using an electromagnet to control the flow of current in a circuit.

Electromagnetic relays consist of a coil of wire wrapped around a magnetic core, a movable armature, and one or more sets of contacts. When a current is passed through the coil, it creates a magnetic field that attracts the armature towards the core. This movement causes the contacts to either open or close, depending on the design of the relay.

The contacts of the relay are used to control the flow of current in a separate circuit. For example, a low voltage signal can be used to activate the relay, which in turn can control a high voltage circuit. This is useful in situations where it is not safe or practical to directly control high voltage circuits.

Electromagnetic relays are commonly used in a variety of applications, including industrial control systems, automotive electronics, and power distribution systems. They are reliable and durable, making them a popular choice for many different types of circuits.

However, electromagnetic relays do have some limitations. They can be slow to respond, which can be a problem in some applications. They also require a significant amount of power to operate, which can be a concern in battery-powered systems. Despite these limitations, electromagnetic relays remain an important component in many different types of circuits.