Relays are electrically operated switches used for signal isolation and high-current load switching in control circuits. The architecture consists of an electromagnetic coil and mechanical contacts, or solid-state electronics, typically packaged in DIN-rail mountable housings. Technical characteristics include high dielectric strength, low contact resistance, and various pole configurations (SPDT, DPDT). Functionally, relays allow a low-power signal from an I/O module to control higher power devices like motors or valves. By providing physical separation between control and power circuits, they protect sensitive safety modules and controllers from electrical surges and feedback, ensuring reliable electrical distribution and switching logic.
