Magnetic Latching Relays are a type of switch that uses magnetism to move its contacts between a ‘set’ and a ‘reset’ position. Unlike non-latching relays, they don’t require power to maintain their switching state, allowing them to save energy in applications that use high amounts of current or voltage. Latching relays are also faster, tend to be less bulky than mechanical variants and offer a longer lifespan due to the limited amount of physical movement taking place inside the relay’s switch.
They are suitable for centralized meter reading systems & IC card prepayment meters. They are also used in a variety of household appliances and commercial coffee machines.
Latching Relays are used for a variety of applications, from controlling lights to opening and closing doors. They can also be used to control industrial machines, such as car washes and HVAC and refrigeration equipment. However, they’re often overlooked in electronics design and engineering.
When used in conjunction with a circuit that can provide enough working current, a relay is a simple and effective way to turn on and off an electric circuit. The magnetic material in the relay switches on when a pulse of voltage is applied to its coil. It can then hold its switched-on state until a reverse current is applied or the relay’s release button is pressed.
While it may seem simple enough, the specifics of how a magnetic latching relay works are somewhat complicated. It’s important to select the right relay for your application, considering factors such as:
Whether you need a relay that can handle a small or large number of cycles, a single or double coil, and more. The type of coil is also important, as different types of relays have a distinct switching action.
A relay’s coil is the component that generates a magnetic field that pulls or pushes the armature (also known as a reed switch in electromagnetic relays) between its two terminals. When a brief pulse of input current is applied to the coil, it creates magnetic poles that oppose one another. This is why the armature moves in the desired direction.
When the armature’s magnetic poles meet up with the fixed contact, they are held in place by the force of the contact spring or magnetic field. Eventually, the armature will reach its target position and the switch will be ‘latched’. Depending on the type of relay, it can remain in its set position until the polarity of the current changes or it is reset by a new pulse of input current with the opposite polarity.
If you’re looking for a magnetic latching relay that can handle the switching current and voltage of your application, check out DFRobot’s wide selection of models. Each relay has its own unique specifications and features, but most are compatible with the general working current of your control circuit. In addition, you can get advice and cool ideas on our forum or chat with us directly through the DFRobot store.
