If you’re into electrical work, you’re probably familiar with relays. A relay is a device that allows a low voltage circuit to control a high voltage circuit. It’s an essential component of many electrical systems, including lighting, HVAC, and more. In this article, we’ll focus on the RR7 relay wiring diagram, which is commonly used in commercial and industrial settings.
What is an RR7 Relay?
The RR7 relay is a type of electro-mechanical relay that’s used to control lighting systems. It’s a general-purpose relay that’s capable of switching up to 20 amps, making it suitable for most applications. The RR7 relay is typically used in commercial and industrial lighting systems, such as those found in schools, hospitals, and office buildings.
The RR7 relay is a double-pole, single-throw (DPST) relay, which means it has two switches that are operated by a single coil. When the coil is energized, the switches close, allowing electricity to flow through the relay. When the coil is de-energized, the switches open, cutting off the flow of electricity.
RR7 Relay Wiring Diagram
The RR7 relay wiring diagram is relatively simple. It consists of three main components: the RR7 relay itself, a low voltage control circuit, and a high voltage load circuit. Here’s what the wiring diagram looks like:
| Terminal | Description |
|---|---|
| 1 | Low voltage hot |
| 2 | Low voltage neutral |
| 3 | High voltage hot |
| 4 | High voltage neutral |
| 5 | Switch contact |
| 6 | Switch contact |
| 7 | Coil common |
| 8 | Coil hot |
As you can see, the RR7 relay has eight terminals, numbered 1-8. Terminals 1 and 2 are for the low voltage control circuit, while terminals 3 and 4 are for the high voltage load circuit. Terminals 5 and 6 are switch contacts, which are used to open and close the high voltage circuit. Terminals 7 and 8 are for the coil. When voltage is applied to terminal 8, it energizes the coil, which in turn closes the switch contacts.
How to Wire an RR7 Relay
Wiring an RR7 relay is relatively straightforward, but it’s important to follow the wiring diagram carefully. Here’s a step-by-step guide to wiring an RR7 relay:
Step 1: Turn off the Power
Before you start wiring the RR7 relay, make sure the power is turned off. This will help prevent electrical shock and protect the relay from damage. You should also wear appropriate protective gear, such as gloves and safety glasses.
Step 2: Identify the Hot and Neutral Wires
The first step in wiring the RR7 relay is to identify the hot and neutral wires in the low voltage control circuit. The hot wire is typically black or red, while the neutral wire is white. You should also make sure the wires are properly grounded.
Step 3: Connect the Low Voltage Wires to the RR7 Relay
Once you’ve identified the hot and neutral wires, you can connect them to terminals 1 and 2 on the RR7 relay. Make sure you follow the wiring diagram carefully, and tighten the terminal screws securely.
Step 4: Identify the Hot and Neutral Wires in the Load Circuit
The next step is to identify the hot and neutral wires in the high voltage load circuit. This will typically involve tracing the wires from the light fixture or other load to the electrical panel. Once you’ve identified the wires, make sure they’re properly grounded.
Step 5: Connect the Load Wires to the RR7 Relay
Once you’ve identified the hot and neutral wires in the load circuit, you can connect them to terminals 3 and 4 on the RR7 relay. Again, make sure you follow the wiring diagram carefully, and tighten the terminal screws securely.
Step 6: Connect the Switch Contacts
The next step is to connect the switch contacts to the load circuit. This will typically involve cutting the wires and splicing them together, making sure to use appropriate connectors and insulation. You should also test the switch contacts to make sure they’re working properly.
Step 7: Connect the Coil Wires
The final step is to connect the coil wires to terminals 7 and 8 on the RR7 relay. Make sure you follow the wiring diagram carefully, and tighten the terminal screws securely. Once you’ve connected the coil wires, you can turn on the power and test the relay to make sure it’s working properly.
FAQ
What is an RR7 relay used for?
The RR7 relay is commonly used to control lighting systems in commercial and industrial settings. It’s a general-purpose relay that’s capable of switching up to 20 amps, making it suitable for most applications.
How does an RR7 relay work?
The RR7 relay is a double-pole, single-throw (DPST) relay, which means it has two switches that are operated by a single coil. When the coil is energized, the switches close, allowing electricity to flow through the relay. When the coil is de-energized, the switches open, cutting off the flow of electricity.
How do you wire an RR7 relay?
Wiring an RR7 relay is relatively straightforward. You’ll need to identify the hot and neutral wires in the low voltage control circuit and connect them to terminals 1 and 2 on the relay. You’ll also need to identify the hot and neutral wires in the load circuit and connect them to terminals 3 and 4 on the relay. Finally, you’ll need to connect the switch contacts and coil wires according to the wiring diagram.
How do you test an RR7 relay?
To test an RR7 relay, you’ll need to connect a power source to the coil and a load to the switch contacts. Once you’ve turned on the power, the relay should activate and close the switch contacts, allowing electricity to flow through the load. If the relay isn’t working properly, you may need to check the wiring or replace the relay.
Where can I buy an RR7 relay?
RR7 relays are widely available from electrical supply stores and online retailers. You may also be able to find them at hardware stores or home improvement stores.
Conclusion
The RR7 relay is an essential component of many lighting systems in commercial and industrial settings. By following the wiring diagram carefully and making sure to test the relay before putting it into service, you can ensure that your lighting system operates safely and reliably. With the right tools and knowledge, wiring an RR7 relay is a straightforward process that can be completed by anyone with basic electrical skills.
