Ultra slim relay socket gets the screwless treatment for speed and safety
11 April 2011
Still installing screw terminal relays? There is a better way, according to Hongfa distributor Switchtec, which can now offer from stock a wide range of electromechanical and solid state ultra-slim relays and sockets that makes full use of screwless, vibration-resistant terminal technology
Installing standard screwed relay sockets is a time-consuming process; you have to ensure that all terminals are tightened securely and to the correct torque. Too little torque, and conductors can become loose, particularly if the panel is subject to vibration. Too much torque, on the other hand, and you risk crushing or severing the very copper conductors you are attempting to secure. But you don’t have to rely on screw terminals any more. Hongfa's new screwless socket, which is designed for use with its type 41F relay, not only reduces installation time to help you gain those all-important productivity benefits, but it also provides a guaranteed vibration resistant connection.
Available from Switchtec, this screwless socket version of the 41F avoids the uncertainties of tightening torque, as well as that common shortcoming of traditional screwed products – susceptibility to vibration - which causes screws to work loose, conductors to drop from terminals and all the problems that ensue as a result. With this screwless socket version, the cable is clamped by metal springs arms that are under constant tension, ensuring a safe and reliable connection that is much less susceptible to vibration.
Hongfa's HF41F satisfies the demand for ultra slim relays, and offers a lot of flexibility thanks to its compact size, contact rating and high coil sensitivity. The relay contacts are SPDT 6A rated silver nickel oxide and have a maximum switching voltage of 400Vac. Gold-plated contacts for specialised switching applications can also be supplied. Just 6mm wide, the relay has LED indication of supply status, and comes with a robust plastic retaining clip, that facilitates quick removal and replacement.
And to help you choose an option that best fits your application, no less than seven operating coil voltages are available (6, 9, 12, 24, 48-60, 110-125, and 220-240V), all ac/dc compatible. If you happen to be exporting equipment to hot or cold climes, you can also rest assured that these relays will cope, as they have an operating range of -40 to +70 degrees C.
For multiple installations, a two- to 20-way jumper link is available, allowing all 'common' terminals to be safely connected together. As well as being much neater, the jumper link also avoids having to cut, strip and terminate short lengths of cable; once more, you gain in terms of productivity.
The Hongfa 41F screwless socket can also be used with the solid state version of the relay, the HFS32. With normal switching capabilities of 2A, 48-440Vac and 5A, 0.1-57.6Vdc, the HFS32 series will withstand a surge current of 80A (depending on type), which makes them a very good choice for switching inductive loads and any other application that involves high inrush currents.
Fully CE, UL and CUR compliant, these products are competitively prices and available from Switchtec’s stock.
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