Relay

Description

A relay is an electrically operated switch. In CNC routers and laser machines the controller sends a small signal to the relay coil, and the relay's contacts then switch a separate, heavier circuit such as an air pump, water pump, fume extractor, spindle contactor or warning light, keeping the controller's delicate outputs isolated from those loads.

A failing relay may click without powering its load, stay latched after the signal is removed, or stop clicking altogether. Burnt or pitted contacts, a discoloured case or a melted socket point to overload. Before replacing it, measure whether the coil is receiving its control voltage; if no signal arrives, the fault lies in the controller or wiring. Always switch the machine off before pulling a relay from its base.

Relays vary widely in coil voltage, contact rating and pin layout, so the name alone is not enough to choose one. Photograph the old relay with its printed label and its socket, send the pictures to Top Laser, and our technicians will match the right type.