Tips DIY Business Owners Can Use to Protect Relay Switches for Production Equipment
Are you thinking of expanding your business towards mass production? If yes, then you need to install appropriate equipment to expand capacity for production of your products. Most production gear has timer relays, which are intermediate (and smaller) switches that operate bigger ones for turning production machines on and off. Relay switches cost a considerable amount depending on the production machine being operated.
As a business owner, you would want to control this cost and keep running expenses low. Timer relays can be protected by using appropriate contacts. This article explores options that a DIY business owner can use to protect relay switches from untimely damage.
Type of Material Used on Contacts — The type of material used on the contacts of a timer relay determines how long it will be useful. You should keep this in mind when purchasing a timer relay. Entry-level contacts for generic equipment are made from copper. However, specialized production gear might require specialized contacts, for example, aluminum or platinum. Using the right contact will determine the longevity and efficiency of your equipment. Contacts made from inappropriate material will wear out faster and become expensive in the end due to frequent replacements or repairs on your relays. Poor materials also cause increase in contact resistance and more power consumption.
Voltage — The load current subjected on the contacts of a timer relay determines its durability. If the quantity of current is more than the manufacturer's recommended load, then the contacts are going to short and malfunction. As a DIY business owner, you should ensure that you follow the manufacturer guidelines regarding recommended voltage for your timer relays – whether replacing or purchasing for initial installation.
Operating Frequency — The operating frequency of your production equipment affects the durability of timer relays either positively or negatively. When timer relays operate longer than recommended, contact welding will occur, thereby reducing their usefulness over time. In case this happens, you will find yourself replacing contacts or the timer relays more frequently than expected. Therefore, make sure that the equipment of your business is switched off when not in use.
Type of Loads — The type of load on your timer relays for your baking equipment significantly affect their contacts. For instance, ovens need timer relay contacts that can handle resistive loads. As a DIY business owner, you should research deeply or consult on this area due to the technicality involved.
