120V AC Relay Performance Advice
Mechanical devices controlled by electrical relays appear in many appliances, such as an exhaust fan in an HVAC (Heating Ventilation Air-Conditioning) system. A common relay is a 120-volt AC type with specific performance parameters.
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Function
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A 120-volt AC (alternating current) relay is an electrical switching device that controls an accessory portion of a machine. The relay closes its contacts with applied electricity, allowing current past for powering the accessory. The accessory shuts off when the electricity flow ceases and the contacts disengage.
Advice
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A 120-volt AC relay powers attached devices that require 10 current amperes or less. The accessory will not function at full speed or will not operate at all if it requires more than 10 amperes. Since AC relays rely on volatile electricity levels, manufacturers have designed the devices to withstand large voltage changes, from 102 to 132 volts.
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Considerations
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A 120-volt AC relay provides an inexpensive method for powering an accessory device. Additionally, it tolerates short electrical overload bursts within the electrical system, making it a durable device choice with a long lifespan.
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References
- Photo Credit Ryan McVay/Digital Vision/Getty Images
