One of the most common safety features in relays is overload protection. Overload relays are designed to protect motors and other electrical equipment from the damaging effects of prolonged overcurrent conditions. When a relay detects an excess in current—usually caused by an equipment malfunction or overloading—the relay will disconnect the circuit, preventing overheating that could potentially lead to fires or irreversible damage to the equipment. This type of relay is crucial in industrial settings where heavy machinery operates continuously and is subject to high power demands.