Timing Relays

What is the purpose of a timing relay in industrial environments?

The DIN timing relay plays a central role in numerous industrial applications where operation synchronization is paramount. These industrial applications cover a wide spectrum of professional uses. It is notably involved in motor starting control to avoid current peaks and sudden shutdowns, in automatic lighting timers for production areas, or in the management of ventilation and cooling systems.

Multifunction electrical timing relays also enable the management of signaling devices, automated control circuits, and star-delta relay sequences for progressive starts.

Thanks to its ability to generate a delayed response or integrate a flashing function, this device optimizes equipment operating cycles, reduces premature component wear, and improves the safety of industrial installations. Timing switches also offer a technical solution for managing junctions between different phases of an automated process.

The different types of timing relays available

Industrial timing relays come in several configurations according to electrical application needs.

The multifunction timing relay

The multifunction timing relay offers great versatility with functions such as on-delay timing, off-delay timing, impulse relay, or multifunction toggle relay. These devices allow precise adjustment thanks to selectable time ranges adapted to each context.

Digital timing relays

Digital timing relays integrate an LED status indicator and sometimes offer programming via application to facilitate contact configuration. The technology used guarantees reliable and repeated switching over time. The Schneider Electric Harmony Time range, composed of the RE22 and RE17 series available on One-Elec, covers all these needs with ranges from 0.1 seconds to 300 hours. These modules comply with standard dimensions and guarantee compatibility with industrial standards. Some models also include changeover contacts to adapt the control logic according to projects.

Selection criteria and technical characteristics

To select the product suited to your electrical installation, several technical criteria must be taken into account:

• Supply voltage constitutes the first parameter, with models compatible in alternating or direct current, generally from 24 V to 240 V.
• The number of output contacts determines the capacity to control several electrical circuits simultaneously according to received control signals.
• Programmable timers with integrated clock module allow advanced management of time sequences.
• The modular format with DIN rail mounting facilitates integration into electrical enclosures, while protective housings ensure durability in industrial environments. Simplified rail connection and the quantity of available accessories enable rapid on-site implementation.

These relays also find their place in building automation and certain home automation applications, although their design primarily targets demanding industrial environments. While different from industrial programmable logic controllers, timing relays constitute an economical and effective solution for specific electromechanical timing needs. Consult our product list and compare the available tools to find the device suited to your application at the best price.

Find on One-Elec our complete catalog of Schneider Electric industrial timing relays, with a large quantity of references available in stock for fast delivery within 24/48h in mainland France. Our results in terms of availability and our complete list of mounting, protection, and connection accessories guarantee you a turnkey solution for all your automation projects. Our teams are at your disposal to support you in choosing the timing system best suited to your technical constraints.