A General-purpose relay is an essential component in the world of electrical engineering, providing a simple yet effective solution for controlling larger electrical systems. Used across various industries, this versatile device plays a crucial role in automation, signal switching, and circuit protection. In this article, we will explore what a general-purpose relay is, how it works, its typical applications, and the advantages it offers in different scenarios.

What is a General-purpose Relay? A general-purpose relay is an electromechanical switch designed to control electrical circuits. It consists of a coil, a set of contacts (normally open or normally closed), and an armature that moves when the coil is energized. When current passes through the coil, it generates a magnetic field that attracts the armature, causing the contacts to close or open, depending on the relay type. This process allows a low-power electrical signal to control a higher-power circuit, making relays indispensable in controlling devices that require more voltage or current than the control system can directly handle.