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Power Relays

RS Australia is a trusted distributor of AC and DC power relays, covering relay coil voltages from 5V to 240V, including 24V AC relay and 24V DC relay configurations, across brands suited to industrial control panels, HVAC, and building automation. The range spans low-power and high-power relay variants, as well as high-voltage relays for demanding switching applications. Bulk price breaks are available from 5+ units.

Brands available include:

What Is a Power Relay

Power relays are electromechanical devices that are used to control the flow of electrical power in a circuit. They are commonly used in industrial and commercial applications to control large electrical loads, such as motors, heaters, and lighting systems. Power relays consist of a coil, which generates a magnetic field when a current flows through it, and a set of contacts that are mechanically switched by the magnetic field. When the relay coil is energised, the contacts close, allowing current to flow through the relay and to the load. When the relay coil is de-energised, the contacts open, breaking the circuit and stopping the flow of current. There are multiple benefits and advantages of using power relays:

Control High Power with Low Voltage: Power relays allow you to control high power loads with a low voltage signal, making them ideal for integrating with control systems that operate at lower voltages. For example, a 24V DC relay can be used to control a high power motor.
Electrical Isolation: Power relays provide electrical isolation between the control circuit and the load circuit. This is crucial for protecting sensitive control electronics from high voltage spikes and ensuring safe operation.
Versatility: Most power relays can be tailored to meet specific application requirements. They also come in both AC power relay and DC power relay variants.
Durability and Reliability: Power relay switches are designed to handle large electrical loads and harsh conditions, making them highly durable and reliable.
Additional Features: Many power relays include features such as time delays, which can help prevent inrush currents, and surge suppression, which protects against voltage spikes.
Flexibility in Application: Both high power relay and low power relay can be used in a wide range of applications, from industrial automation to commercial lighting systems.

Common Variations & Configurations of Power Relays

Power relay switches are available in a variety of configurations, including single-pole, double-pole, and three-pole versions. They may also include auxiliary contacts, which can be used to monitor the status of the relay or to control other devices in the circuit. Additionally, power relays may have features such as time delays or surge suppression to provide additional protection and control. There are various configurations available:

Coil Voltage: Power relays can be designed for different coil voltages. The coil voltage determines the control voltage needed to activate the relay. For example, a 24V DC relay is commonly used in control systems operating on a 24V DC supply.
Coil Power: The power consumption of the relay's coil is an important factor, especially in battery-operated applications. Low power relays are designed to consume minimal energy, making them suitable for energy-efficient designs.
AC/DC: Power relays can operate on both AC and DC currents. AC power relays are typically used in applications involving alternating current, while DC power relays are used for direct current applications.
Switching Current: The switching current capacity of a power relay indicates the maximum current that the relay can handle. High power relays are capable of switching high currents, making them ideal for heavy-duty applications such as industrial machinery and high-power lighting systems.
Contact Configuration: Power relays come in various contact configurations, including SPST, SPDT, DPST, DPDT, and three-pole variants for controlling multiple circuits simultaneously.
Mounting Type: Common mounting types include DIN rail mounting for industrial control panels, PCB mounting for electronic systems integration, and panel mounting for control enclosures.
Additional Features: Time delays and surge suppression are available on selected models to enhance protection and extend the lifespan of connected equipment.

Applications for Power Relays

Power relays are used in a wide range of applications where electrical power needs to be controlled:

Motor Control: Power relays control the operation of electric motors in pumps, conveyors, and HVAC systems.
Lighting Control: Used to control streetlights, outdoor lighting, and indoor commercial or industrial lighting systems.
Heating and Cooling Systems: Power relay switches control heaters, air conditioners, and refrigeration units.
Power Distribution: High power relay switches manage switching between main power sources and backup supplies.
Power Factor Correction: Power relays improve the efficiency of electrical systems by correcting power factor.
Uninterruptible Power Supplies (UPS): Relays switch between battery backup and mains power in UPS systems.
Security Systems: Power relays control door locks, alarms, and cameras in security installations.

How to Order Power Relays from RS

Ordering power relay switches throughRS Australia gives engineers, panel builders, and procurement teams direct access to one of the most comprehensive relay catalogues in the region, with stock backed by global supply networks and local fulfilment. Whether you need a high current DC relay for a heavy industrial build, a DPDT power relay for complex switching operations, or a double pole relay 24V for a control panel application, you can filter by coil voltage, contact configuration, mounting type, and switching current.

Besides power relays, RS Australia also carries related components that include signal relays, solid state relays, and timer relays. Business customers can enjoy bulk pricing from 5+ units and free Australia-wide delivery on orders above $40 excluding GST.

Delivery Information for Australia

In-stock power relays are dispatched same day on orders placed before 5 pm AEST Monday to Friday, with next working day delivery available Australia-wide. Sydney metro customers can request same-day delivery on orders placed before 11:45 am AEST. Same-day collection is also available at our Sydney Click & Collect counter. For full details on exclusions, fees, and regional lead times, visit ourdelivery information page.