What is a speed relay? Structure, classification and operating principle

Speed relay (also known as a speed relay) is an electronic device used to monitor and protect motors or other rotating equipment based on their rotational speed. It works by detecting the rotational speed and comparing it to a preset value.

If the speed exceeds or falls below the allowable threshold, the relay will be activated to perform protective actions such as power off, warning or speed adjustment. Speed relay plays an important role in ensuring the safety and performance of mechanical systems, especially in industrial applications. Together Tan Long Find out now!

Speed control relay

Speed control relay is a type of relay used to control and maintain the rotational speed of a motor or equipment within the desired range. It is often used in automatic control systems, helping to ensure stable operation and avoid problems due to overspeed or underspeed.

Structure

Speed control relays usually include the following main components:

  • Speed sensor: It is responsible for measuring the rotational speed of the motor or device. Common types of sensors include: proximity sensors, encoders, magnetic sensors, etc.
  • Processor: This part receives the signal from the sensor, processes it and compares it with the preset speed value.
  • Comparator: Perform a comparison of the measured actual speed value and the set speed value.
  • Output contacts: When the speed exceeds the allowable threshold, the comparator will activate the output contact to perform control actions such as turning on, turning off the machine, speed control, braking, etc.
  • Display unit (optional): Displays current speed value and other parameters.
  • Protective cover: Protect internal components from external environmental influences.

Working principle

The operating principle of the speed control relay is based on comparing the actual rotational speed value with the preset value.

  • Speed measurement: The speed sensor continuously monitors and measures the rotational speed of the motor or device. The measured signal is converted into a suitable form (e.g. electrical pulse, voltage) and transmitted to the processor.
  • Compare and process: The processor processes the signal from the sensors, calculates the speed and compares it with the preset speed value.
  • Enable output: If the actual speed falls outside the allowable range, the comparator activates the output contact, controlling external devices or circuits to bring the speed back to the desired level.
  • For example: If the relay is set to maintain 1000 rpm, when the motor speed increases to 1100 rpm, the relay will activate to reduce the speed (possibly by reducing the motor input voltage). Conversely, if the speed decreases to 900 rpm, the relay will activate to increase the speed.
Speed control relay
Speed control relay

Key features of speed relay

Speed relay Equipped with many useful features to ensure effective protection and control. Some of the key features include:

  • Speed monitoring: This is the most basic feature, allowing continuous monitoring of the rotational speed of a motor or device.
  • Overspeed detection: The relay will trigger an alarm or cut off power when the speed exceeds the set upper threshold.
  • Detecting underspeed: Similar to overspeed, the relay will activate when the speed is lower than the set lower threshold.
  • Speed threshold setting: Users can customize the upper and lower speed thresholds to suit the requirements of each application.
  • Delay: Some relays allow a delay to be set to avoid false activation due to short-term speed fluctuations.
  • Reset ability: Once activated, the relay can be reset manually or automatically when the speed returns to normal.
  • Display: Some relays have a display that shows the current speed value and the set parameters.
  • Connect to other systems: Relays can be integrated with other control and monitoring systems.
Key features of speed relay
Key features of speed relay

Speed relay user manual

Usage speed relay must be performed properly to ensure safety and effectiveness. Here are basic instructions for use:

  • Installation: Install the relay according to the manufacturer's wiring diagram. Pay attention to connecting the speed sensors, power supply, and output devices.
  • Speed threshold setting: Select the upper and lower threshold speed values to suit the application requirements. The setting is usually done via push buttons, potentiometers, knobs, etc.
  • Set delay (if any): The delay time allows short-term speed fluctuations to be ignored, avoiding false triggering.
  • Check operation: After installation and setting, it is necessary to check the operation of the relay by changing the speed of the motor and observing the response of the relay.
  • Maintenance: Perform periodic maintenance according to the manufacturer's instructions to ensure the relay operates stably and accurately.
Speed relay user manual
Speed relay user manual

Speed check relay

Speed control relay is a type of relay specially designed to check and detect abnormal changes in the rotational speed of a motor or machine. It acts as a protection device, helping to prevent problems caused by overspeed, underspeed or loss of speed.

Induction type speed control relay

Inductive type speed control relay works on the principle of electromagnetic induction. This type of relay is often used for high speed motors.

  • Structure: Consists of a permanent magnet mounted on the motor's rotating shaft and a coil (or magnetic sensor) placed near the magnet.
  • Working principle: As the motor rotates, the permanent magnet rotates, creating a changing magnetic field. This magnetic field induces a coil (or magnetic sensor), creating an electrical signal. The frequency of this electrical signal is proportional to the speed of the motor. The processor in the relay analyzes this signal to determine the speed. When the speed exceeds or falls below the set threshold, the relay is activated.
  • Advantage: High sensitivity, fast response, no direct contact so less wear.
  • Disadvantages: May be affected by electromagnetic interference from the surrounding environment.
Induction type speed control relay
Induction type speed control relay

Centrifugal speed control relay

Centrifugal speed control relays operate on the principle of centrifugal force. This type of relay is commonly used for lower speed motors.

  • Structure: Consists of a centrifugal mechanism mounted on the motor shaft and a contact system. The centrifugal mechanism usually consists of weights attached to springs.
  • Working principle: As the motor rotates, centrifugal force acts on the weights, causing them to fly out. The extent to which the weights fly out depends on the rotation speed. When the speed reaches a certain threshold, the weights will act on the contact system, changing the state of the contacts (closed or open).
  • Advantage: Simple structure, high reliability, less affected by electromagnetic interference.
  • Disadvantages: Slower response than touch type, has direct contact so is susceptible to wear.
Centrifugal speed control relay
Centrifugal speed control relay

Conclude

Speed relay is an important device in monitoring, controlling, and protecting motors and machines based on rotational speed. It helps prevent incidents due to overspeed, underspeed, ensuring safety and improving operating efficiency.

Understanding the structure, operating principles, classification, and usage speed relay It is essential to select and use this equipment correctly and effectively. There are many types available today. speed relay On the market with different features and prices, users need to carefully consider technical factors and usage needs to choose the most suitable product.

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