Time relays

A time relay (also called a timer) is a special type of programmer used in home and industrial automation. This device performs various types of functions at a programmed and clearly defined time. It can, for example, delay switching on or off the output circuit of equipment equipped with a relay or directly connected to it.

The time relay is a device with a very simple structure and small dimensions. Despite this, it is often used for increasingly complex and advanced tasks. The contemporary scope of application of this type of programmers should even be described as very wide. Relays are used, for example, in industry, automation, construction, and even the water and sewage industry. They can be found in traffic lights, HVAC systems, various types of lighting, heating, air conditioning systems, etc.

Building a time relay

The timing relay is usually constructed in a modular way. This means that it can be freely combined or separated with other programmers of this type, depending on individual needs or requirements of a specific application or equipment.

The equipment usually includes the following elements: sockets with input terminals, sockets with output terminals, a time module, a coil with working contacts in electromechanical relays, photoemitters and photodetectors in semiconductor time relays, knobs for time adjustment and setting a given function, and a diode signaling. The whole thing is enclosed in a sealed housing made of plastic. It is designed to protect the relay against external factors, as well as to enable the easiest possible installation in the device and ensure quick access. Most often, the relay shell is made of plastic with a degree of protection (IP66) with the possibility of express assembly on a DIN rail.

How does a timer work?

The time relay is primarily designed to regulate the working time and break times of the supported systems. The fixture is programmed to perform specific reactions at given time intervals. Depending on the model, it is possible to set its operation in the range from a few milliseconds to even ten days. The relay is not intended for ad hoc use. It is used to ensure the desired operation of a given system or device in uninterrupted mode.

Timer – types

The timer may come in at least several variants. The basic type of division of these accessories is based on the number of functions that the product is able to handle. And this is how one-, two- and multi-functional relays are distinguished.

The simplest mechanisms are used to control only one task. Their operation is focused on a single reaction occurring, of course, at a certain time. Slightly more advanced solutions allow you to use one relay to assign many functions and thus to regulate more systems. Before buying a programmer, it is worth verifying how many tasks it will ultimately be charged with. Installation of several relays is not always possible and most often uneconomical. Multifunctional solutions solve this problem, and additionally allow you to keep the design of the entire device or system simple.

The time relay can also be in the form of industrial or installation equipment. The first of them are distinguished by a slightly more advanced design. They are designed to support more complex systems and installations (e.g. those to which equipment using very high voltage is connected). As a rule, they also have larger dimensions than simpler installation models, intended mainly for servicing home systems.

Relays also have different programming methods. Individual products are set using simple knobs, the so-called dipswitches or LCD displays. The latter are found in the most modern programmers, usually used to construct a fully integrated system of intelligent buildings. Individual models of relays also differ in the value of the voltage necessary to power the equipment (usually this value is between 12 and 240 V D/C).

Timer – what does it actually enable?

The timer is installed to:

• delaying the moment of switching on,
• delays of the so-called falling,
• delayed release,
• excitation delays,
• acting as a flashing relay with a control contact.

Put simply – this equipment allows you to remotely control electricity receivers, lighting elements (e.g. in the staircase), heating, air conditioning ventilation, etc. Thanks to it, you can easily achieve the desired effect of individual systems so that they function efficiently, functionally and economically.

The relay gives a lot of possibilities to individually program the operation of a given system. When used in home solutions – this increases the overall comfort of using the living space. On the other hand, in industry, it allows not only to achieve the desired features of the structure, but also increases its service life.

EXTA time relay in the el12.pl store's offer

This product category includes time relays compatible with EXTA building automation. This is a special line of accessories by ZAMEL, which is distinguished by a high degree of universality, intuitiveness, simple installation and convenient use. Time relays from this series are ideal for constructing an efficient and functional smart house system. We offer models with various technical parameters.

In addition to this, the el12.pl store sells other models of time relays. We have one-, two- and multi-functional accessories, ready for installation in a number of various solutions and constructions. These programmers are available in a separate product category.