Transcript:
[0m:00s] Hey, I’m Mitchell. Welcome to another video in the RSP education series. What if a single relay could save your machine from costly damage or even prevent a safety hazard? Today we’re unlocking the secrets of timing relays. Whether it’s delaying a motor start to avoid power surges or keeping a cooling fan running after shutdown, these relays are game changers. Stick around and by the end of this video you’re going to know exactly how to use them like a pro. If you like this kind of content and want more educational videos, like and subscribe. This video is for educational purposes only. Consult a professional for your application. RSP Supply is not liable for any misuse of this information. Let’s get into it.
[0m:47s] Timing relays are special relays that introduce a time delay before switching. They are essential for processes that need precise timing like motor sequencing, conveyor systems, or safety interlocks. There are three main types you will encounter. On delay timers wait for a set amount of time after receiving a signal before turning on. Think of it like a snooze button where the action happens later. A common example is delaying a motor start to prevent power surges.
[1m:23s] Off delay timers do the opposite. They keep a circuit active for a set time after the input signal stops. An example would be keeping a cooling fan running for ten seconds after a machine shuts down. Interval or pulse timers activate immediately when triggered but turn off after a fixed time regardless of the input. An example would be a short burst of air to clear debris from a sensor.
[1m:50s] Now let’s talk about adjustable versus fixed timers. Timing relays come in two types. Adjustable timers allow you to set the delay manually using dials, DIP switches, or software. Fixed timers are preset at the factory. They are cheaper but very inflexible. Most industrial applications use adjustable timers because flexibility is critical across different systems and industries.
[2m:18s] DIP switches are the small switches you often see on relays and they allow timing settings to be configured using binary code. Newer relays may use digital displays or software, but DIP switches are still very common. Always check the data sheet because each switch position changes the time multiplier. To recap, we covered on delay, off delay, and interval timers along with adjustable and fixed options so you know when to use each. For a full line of relays and hundreds of thousands of industrial automation products, visit rspsupply.com.