Tech & Buying Guide

Standard electromechanical relays provide basic electrical isolation between low-voltage control circuits and high-power output loads. A traditional switching relay features a magnetic coil driving mechanical Common (COM), Normally-Open (NO), and Normally-Closed (NC) contacts. However, standard relays pose severe functional risks when deployed in critical safety interlock circuits. High current inrush or mechanical wear can weld contacts together permanently. If contact welding occurs in an emergency stop circuit, pressing the button fails to halt hazardous machinery movements. Consequently, global functional safety standards prohibit standard relays for critical machine guarding functions.