The relay works as an electrical switch and its main function is to convert smaller electrical input into a higher amount of output. This conversion is important for the devices and it is used in a variety of control components in production units. 

These application areas demand high reliability and control systems. The general purpose relays are used in the control system of processes such as electricity, water, and gas.

The electronic motors and devices also use general purpose relays. The conversion of current flow can be found in any electric device and without this, the device cannot properly function without errors.

What are General Purpose Relays?

General purpose or GP relays are utilized where it is important to control a circuit by a free low-power signal, or where a few circuits should be constrained by one sign. Relays were first used in significant long-distance circuits to assign repeaters: they invigorate the sign rolling in from one circuit by sending it on another circuit. 

What is the Use of General Purpose Relays in Electronic Devices?

The relays are utilized in different applications depending on various measures like rating of contacts, number, and kind of contacts, the voltage rating of contacts, operating lifetime, curl voltage and current, bundle, etc. There are various applications for electromechanical relays.

Relays are oftentimes being utilized in power system networks for controlling reasons, mechanization reasons, and insurance reasons.

The relays are commonly used in applications and processes like engine control, automation of processes. For example, in the electrical fuel pump, modern applications are the most typical use application areas of GP relays. This care is used in cases to control high voltages and flows, controlling huge power loads, etc.

What Are the Advantages of Using General Purpose Relays?

The general Purpose relays are cost-effective and help to reduce the cost due to system failure due to electrical faults. The relay has a small profile and its different mounting styles and compatibility is desired. It also simplifies the installation and wiring process.

You will find various GP relays in different colors, the color codes are given for a specific purpose. The color codes are useful for quick and easy testing. It is also helpful for troubleshooting control logic circuits. 

What are the Types of Relays?

There are various types of general purpose relays and they are classified due to their features and suitability for the particular process. We are mentioning the most common ones along with their workings.

For Control Panels

The Relays that are used in control panels are mainly used for relay sequences or I/O applications. These typically come with 1 to 4 poles.

Built-In

The built-in relays are used due to their core feature of allowing carrying the current of up to 40 A.  It comes within the housing of the device that’s why named such. This particular relays type is used for building into devices, e.g., to turn ON load power supplies

For Work Saving 

These are other types of general purpose relays that are used mainly for I/O applications. The main feature of this relay is saving work and downsizing. You will find it mostly in programmable controllers 

For Special Operations

The next type of general purpose relays come for special operations. This relay is available as relay units that are used for specific applications only, such as alternative operation and stepping operation of pumps.

Industries That Use Relays

Home Electrical Appliances– These are used in appliances like refrigerators, washing machines, AC units, etc. 

Industrial Machinery– In this industry there is Molding equipment, packing machinery, industrial robots, PLCs, etc that use general purpose relays.

Manufacturing Plants- Chemical plants, control panels, power stations, transfer substations.

Automatic Machines- Vending machines, amusement machines, rides, etc.

Office Automation- These are also used in several machines that are very common in offices to automate the tasks such as copy machines. 

Building Automation- Automation in buildings is the new form of IoT-based technology and it is only possible with the help of relays that remotely control the equipment and switches in applications like lighting, air-conditioning control, etc.

Conclusion

General purpose relays are a very common component used in electrical devices. The relays enable the device and the flexible components that might be simply as powerful in complicated circuits as in easy ones. 

They are used to activate different types of switches. Also, these can be customized for specially designed circuits based on elements that include required amperage.