An Industrial Control Relay is an electrically operated switch that allows control over circuits by opening and closing contact points. Essentially, it operates as a switch that is controlled by an electromagnet. When a control signal is sent to the relay, it energizes the electromagnet, causing the contacts to either open or close. This enables the relay to control a much larger electrical load than the control circuit itself can handle. Industrial control relays are widely used in various applications, such as machine automation, safety protection, and process control, due to their reliability and versatility.