What is the default state of the contacts in a potential relay?

What is the default state of the contacts in a potential relay?

• A. Normally closed
• B. Normally open
• C. Open only during actuation
• D. Shorted when energized

Answer: (A)

A potential relay is a voltage-sensing device where the default condition is the coil being de-energized. In that unenergized state the contacts are closed, meaning the circuit is complete. When the sensed voltage reaches its set threshold and energizes the coil, the magnetic action pulls the contact open, interrupting the circuit. So, the default state of the contacts is normally closed. The idea of “open only during actuation” describes what happens when the coil is energized, not the default state, and “shorted when energized” isn’t how relay contacts operate.

A potential relay is a voltage-sensing device where the default condition is the coil being de-energized. In that unenergized state the contacts are closed, meaning the circuit is complete. When the sensed voltage reaches its set threshold and energizes the coil, the magnetic action pulls the contact open, interrupting the circuit. So, the default state of the contacts is normally closed. The idea of “open only during actuation” describes what happens when the coil is energized, not the default state, and “shorted when energized” isn’t how relay contacts operate.