What is Solid State Relay

We are Carlo Gavazzi Solid State Relay Suppliers, Distributors & Importers in Mumbai, India. A Solid State Relay is a type of electronic switching device that switches on or off with only a small external voltage applied across its control terminals. Unlike the mechanical relay, the SSR uses semiconductor devices such as thyristors, triacs, or transistors to perform the switching function, offering several advantages over traditional electromechanical relays.

Carlo Gavazzi Solid State Relay include the RGC2 and RGC3 series. These SSRs are 3-phase Carlo Gavazzi Solid State Relay with integrated heatsinks, designed to replace mechanical contactors, especially those needing frequent switching. Available in widths ranging from 54 mm to 70 mm, these compact relays offer both 2-pole and 3-pole switching options and can be used for resistive, slightly inductive loads, and motor switching with certified ratings. A green LED indicates the presence of control voltage, while fan operation is automatically managed in those models with integrated fans. Enhanced RGC.M models offer SSR overheat, mains loss, SSR malfunction and load loss monitoring plus an EMR alarm output for remote signalling. Additional LEDs display load and alarm status to provide enhanced industrial control and protection.

Carlo Gavazzi Solid State Relay

Main Features of Solid State Relays:

  • 3-Phase Zero Cross Switching: The solid-state contactor is 3-pole or 2-pole switching for efficient and reliable operation.
  • High Current Ratings: Up to 660 VAC with 75 AAC per pole rating for RGC2A and 65 AAC per pole for RGC3A at 40°C, hence capable of operating even in demanding industrial ambients.
  • Integrated Monitoring: The malfunction detection of SSR and/or load is possible with optional monitoring. Since the output for an alarm is integrated, remote signaling can also be done with RGC.M to improve safety and reliability of a system.

Key Features of Solid State Relays:

  • No Moving Parts: SSRs contain no moving parts. The contacts inside a mechanical relay happen to be physically moved. Consequently, there is no noise in operation and no mechanical wear and tear.
  • High-Speed Switching: SSRs switch on and off much faster compared to mechanical relays. This makes them suitable to operate when high-speed or frequently switching applications are at stake.
  • Longer operational life: Because no mechanical contacts are involved-which may degrade or wear out, SSRs can usually operate longer than comparable conventional relays.
  • Low noise and vibration: Since no moving parts are involved in the switch, no noise or vibration is produced during operation. This becomes an especial advantage in those environments sensitive to noise.
  • Resistance to Shock and Vibration: SSRs are robust and handle a lot of environmental factors such as shock and vibration. This makes them quite ideal for industrial settings.

Technical Specifications of Solid State Relays

  • Voltage Range: 42-660 VAC (RGC2A, RGC3A) with 1200 V peak blocking voltage.
  • Current Ratings per Pole:
    1. RGC2A: Up to 75 AAC at 40°C.
    2. RGC3A: Up to 65 AAC at 40°C.
  • Control Voltage: 5-32 VDC and 20-275 VAC, 24-190 VDC options available depending on the model.
  • Switching Type: Zero-cross switching for minimal electrical noise. Operational Frequency Range: 45 to 65 Hz.
  • Protection Features:
    1. Integrated overvoltage protection.
    2. Over-temperature protection.
    3. Mains loss, load loss, SSR short circuit, open circuit and over-temperature with EMR alarm output
  • Dimensions: Widths from 54mm on the lower current units to 70mm on the higher current units. Additional space needed for units with integral fans.
  • Heatsink Integral heatsinks negate the need to consider thermal dissipation calculations for external heatsinks
  • MountingAvailable with either DIN rail or panel mount
  • CertificationsCompliant with UL508A for Industrial Control Panels. Short Circuit Current Rating (SCCR): 100 kArms.
  • Environmental Specifications
    1. Operating Temperature: -40°C to +100°C.
    2. Humidity: 95% non-condensing at 40°C.
    3. Pollution Degree: 2.
    4. Installation Altitude: 0-1000 m; above 1000 m, derate by 1% per 100 m up to 2000 m.

Working Principle:

An SSR works on the principle of having a low-power input signal, mostly a control signal, which acts to turn on/off an internal semiconductor switching device to allow or prevent the flow of current through the load. The inner structure mostly contains an optocoupler that will serve to isolate the control side electrically from the load side for safety, and also to reduce electrical interference. SSRs are reliable, fast, and effective switching devices that grant immense benefits in modern electrical and electronic systems.

Applications of RGC Series Solid State Relays:

RGC series Solid State Relay are suitable for use in plastic injection machines, extrusion machines, dryers, electrical ovens, climatic chambers, Blow moulding machines, Thermoformers, Fryers, Shrink tunnels, Air handling units and Sterilization equipment etc.

  • Industrial Automation: This is used in motor controlling, heaters, and other high-power gadgets.
  • Heating and Temperature Control: SSRs find their application in all those applications where temperature control with precision is the requirement, such as ovens and furnaces.
  • Lighting Control: These are suitable for lighting systems controls, including dimming applications.
  • AC and DC Switching: SSRs can switch both AC and DC loads. Thus, SSRs can apply to various applications

Control and Monitoring

SSRs can be controlled within several voltage ranges besides that, they have features of monitoring, including alarm outputs for detecting SSR and load issues.

Selection and Configuration

Depending on the rated voltage, control voltage, and current rating diverse configurations are possible, and an optimal solution can be configured regarding specific industrial requirements.

Benefits of the RGC Series Solid State Relays

  • Panel Space Savings: RGC 3-phase switching range is designed to handle up to 65 AAC per pole-or 75 AAC for 2-pole switching-within a compact 70 mm wide footprint to offer the concentrated power in smaller space.
  • Extended Lifespan: The use of wire bonding technology reduces thermal and mechanical stress on the output chips, upping the number of operational cycles several factors compared to other assembly technologies.
  • Less Machinery Downtime: Inclusion of overvoltage protection prevents system breakdown caused by uncontrolled transients on the power lines thus making the system more reliable.
  • Ease of Use: The RGC2A and RGC3A models have heatsinks inbuilt, hence the user is not required to make any calculations of size for a particular application, which makes the procedure easier.
  • Fast Wiring: The Power connections on models rated 30 A and above have terminals that can accept cables of up to 25 mm² (AWG3) for easier and faster wiring.
  • Integrated Monitoring: Optional monitoring in the 3-phase RGC series allows mains loss, over-temperature, and fault relay or load conditions to be quickly identified, warning of potential damage
  • Industry Standards: The RGC 3-phase range is designed to meet the requirements for Industrial Control Panels per UL508A and is UL-certified as a listed product. A high SCCR of 100 kArms for all models ensures compliance and safety in Industry.