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What is the Difference Between a Relay and a Solid-State Relay?

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Erric Ravi
What is the Difference Between a Relay and a Solid-State Relay?

A relay can be explained as a power switching solution that can be employed to designate power without manually opening and closing the switch. To switch the power on and off, a relay simply mandates the need for a small electrical signal. This signal can be compared to a “gatekeeper” on a metaphorical level, for a much larger electrical signal. The capacity to have low-power control over a high-power signal is what has made relays so pre-eminent throughout the history of electronics. 

There are multiple types of relays, including a regular electric relay and a solid-state relay. The difference between the two can be explained below - 

Functionality 

An electric relay functions with the help of a physical moving part which connects contacts within the output element of the relay. The movement of this contact is propelled using electromagnetic forces from the low-power input signal, enabling the completion of the circuit that contains the high-power signal. The physical component within the electromechanical relay most regularly makes a “click” sound, which can actually be beneficial in some situations, though it can also lead to a situation of internal arcing and takes a comparatively large amount of time to move. 

Solid state relays, utilises a low power electrical signal to create an optical semiconductor signal, typically with an octocoupler, that transmits and stimulates the output signal. When initiated, the input optical signal acts as the “switch” that enables a high voltage signal to pass through the SSR’s output component. There are numerous ways of doing this, but the common factor between them all is the lack of moving parts, therefore making them solid-state.

Electrical Noise 

Electric relays generate significant signal noise as a result of the mechanical system. On the other hand, a solid-state relay generates minimum electrical disturbance.

Shock & Vibration 

An electric relay system is subject to external forces that can lead to unreliable and erratic operation. Conversely, solid-state relays are highly resistant to shock and vibration, which means they are not susceptible to unpredictable performance in hostile environments.

Switching Capabilities

Electric relays can respond to control signals in 5 to 15 milliseconds. Solid-state relays respond to signals 100 times faster - in less than 100 nanoseconds.

Positional Sensitivity 

In the case of electric relays, external forces must be perpendicular to relay action. Solid-state relays are positional insensitive. This means that they are suitable for mounting in vertical or horizontal positions, ‘dead bug’ position or adjacent mounting.

#SchneiderElectric is a giant manufacturer of all the different types of relays and their components, along with other appliances/devices/machineries in the domains of electrical management, contactors, and contactor relays #LifeIsOn

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