ABB Timer Relays

With ABB timer relays, you can have adjustable time delays, multiple timing ranges, and compatibility with different control voltages. As a multinational company known for its expertise in power and automation technologies, ABB offer various series within their timer relays range. Depending on the series and model of the timer relay, the functionalities and features may vary.

What is a timer relay?

Timer relays are specialised devices that integrates timing functions with switching capabilities, enabling you to control the timing of electrical circuits based on time delays, essentially allowing you to turn them on or off after a set period.

What are the two main types of time relays?

The two main types of timer relays are electromechanical or solid-state.

In electromechanical timer relays, a clockwork mechanism is used to measure time, which usually involves a spring or motor-driven gears that move at a constant rate to progress through a set period. To set the time periods, this tends to involve using buttons or knobs on the timer relay. Solid-state (electronic) timer relays, however, use electronic components such as resistors, capacitors, and integrated circuits to measure time, which often allow for more precise timing and flexibility in setting different time intervals. Setting the desired time for electronic timer relays is simple, as they may have digital displays and buttons for programming.

How does a timer relay work?

Timer relays consist of a timer mechanism and a switching element. The timer mechanism can be mechanical, electronic, or a combination of both, depending on the type of timer relay.

Timer relays can be configured as normally open (NO) or normally closed (NC). In the normal state, the relay may have the circuit open (NO) or closed (NC). When the timer completes its countdown, it switches to the opposite state. The choice between NO or NC configuration is dependent on your required application. For example, if you want a device to be activated after a specific time, you may use a NO configuration. Whereas, if you want a device to be deactivated after a specific time, a NC configuration would be appropriate.

ABB have got you covered, as they offer single and multi-functional timer relays.

Features and Benefits

• The automate processes of timer relays allow precision in timing-based operations.
• Optimise energy efficiency through scheduling the activation and deactivation of devises at specific times.
• Protect equipment from overheating through time control.
• Enhance security by integrating a timer relay in your security systems to control alarms, access control devices, and lighting.
• Delay functions are useful to help stabilise conditions before initiating the next step.
• Timer relays provide versatility to meet different application requirements, as they come in various types, such as on-delay, off-delay, interval, and more.
• Save on costs by optimising energy consumption during off-peak hours.

Applications

ABB timer relays can be used in many industries and settings where the control of electrical circuits with time-delayed functions is necessary. Some common applications include:

• Industrial Automation
• Lighting Control
• Pump and Motor Control
• HVAC Systems
• Traffic Signal Control
• Process Control
• Security Systems
• Water and Irrigation Systems
• Appliance Control
• Scientific and Laboratory Equipment