In industrial automation, relays are extensively used to control machinery, manage power distribution, and automate processes. A typical application is in the control of electric motors used in assembly lines. Relays are employed to manage the start/stop operations of motors, ensuring safe operation and preventing overloads. By acting as a bridge between a low-power control signal and a high-power load, relays prevent wear and tear on more sensitive components like microcontrollers.

    For example, in a factory's robotic arm system, relays can control the switching of high-power components such as the motors and solenoids that operate the arm's movement. With the use of relays, it is possible to provide the necessary power to the components without directly overloading the control system.