A high voltage relay that includes any relay capable of handling high voltage applications, typically in the kilovolt range and above. These relays can bevacuum relays, but they might also begas-filledorsolid-state relays, depending on the specific application requirements.
Vacuum relays
Gas-filled relayscontain a gas, often an inert gas like nitrogen or sulfur hexafluoride (SF6), which helps to quench the arc when switching high voltages. These relays can handle very high voltages and currents and are often used in power transmission and distribution systems.
Avacuum relayis an electrical switch that operates inside a vacuum chamber. The vacuum prevents electric arcs from forming when the relay switches on or off, allowing it to handle high voltages more effectively and with less wear on its contacts. This also enables the relay to switch faster than relays in air. Vacuum relays are durable, compact, and operate quietly. They are typically used in applications that require rapid switching and control of high voltage circuits, such as in radio frequency transmission and power distribution systems.
Application |
SF6 Gas with |
SF6 Gas with |
Vacuum with Tungsten/Molybdenum Contacts |
Vacuum with |
Load Bearing Only (DC) |
Possible, but lower current due to increased contact resistance from gas |
Good, but lower current due to increased contact resistance from gas |
Very good, but not as capable as copper contacts |
Best |
Load Bearing Only (RF) |
Not good, as gas affects RF carrying capacity |
Not good, as gas affects RF carrying capacity |
Good, but not as capable as copper contacts |
Best |
Making and Breaking |
Good for making contact but can only break small currents |
Good for making contact but can only break small currents |
Best |
Rarely used, only for very small currents |
Making Contact Without Breaking Load |
Best |
Good, but not as good as harder material contacts |
Good |
Rarely used, only for very small currents |
Long-term Non-use or Requires Low and Stable Leakage Current |
Best when marked for make-only relays |
Good, better than hard contacts in vacuum but with less carrying capacity |
Good, but may experience surge currents at higher voltages |
Rarely used, surge currents at higher voltages |
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