Unlike electromechanical relays that use magnetic fields, coils, springs, mechanical contacts to work a switch, the solid-state relay has no such parts. Relays can be defined as simple switching mechanism that helps in controlling low power signals as well as high-level power electrical apparatus.
When it comes to functionality, electromechanical relays work the same way as solid state relays. The main difference, however, lies in the non-requirement of moving parts for solid state relays to perform a task of the circuit’s closing or opening of contacts.
They are often considered to be an integral part as using optical and electrical specifications of semiconductors to perform switching functions as well as input to output tasks.
Benefits Of Using Solid State Relays Over Electro-mechanical Relays
Here are some of the reasons why shifting to solid state relays make more sense:
- Durable
As has been mentioned before, solid state relays do not require any moving parts to open or close contact circuits. As a result, there is less possibility of contact failure or corrosion due to overuse.
Moreover, they are able to perform lots and lots of cycles while ensuring negligible impact on performance. Its lifetime is believed to be at least 50 times more than any kind of electromechanical relays. That is the reason solid state relays are preferred for applications that require repeated function and low maintenance.
- Fast Response Time
No movable parts in its internal mechanism mean that solid state relays offer fast switching. This means it is possible to apply and remove loads quickly and with precision. It is especially necessary for applications involving the requirement for fast response time.
- Shock Resistant
Since there are no movable parts inside solid state relays, they do not bounce mechanically or electrically. As a result, they are highly reliable high vibration and erratic conditions.
- Lower Power Consumption
This is one of the most important factors that encourage users to prefer solid state relays, and they require less power to energize them. The activation of a solid state relay needs no more than a few milliamps of power to power an entire control circuit.
- High Resistance To Arcing
Also known as the heightened value of dielectric strength, solid state relay is resistant to arcing between output contacts and input controls. They are preferred for use because they offer complete isolation between two input and output terminals.
Due to this isolation, the control device remains unaffected even if there is a surge in voltage that can damage the load terminals. A solid state relay has a high potential to resist these voltages. A mechanical relay, on the other hand, can only go up to 2000-3000 volts, as opposed to 4000-5000 volts offered by a solid state relay.
- Resistive Input
Sometimes, when the control devices are suddenly moved, they may generate reverse voltage, known as flyback, that can damage sensitive controls and cause arcing. Solid state relays are resistant to this restive output, as compared to mechanical relays’ inductive loading because they are powered by coil-based devices.
These are some of the most noted benefits of a solid state relay that makes them suitable for applications that require lighting control, heating control, and motion control, such as HVAC, food and beverage industries, and packing industries.
