Macromatic Time Delay Relay Timing Functions: Ultimate Application Guide

Understanding Time Delay Relay Functions for Industrial Automation Success

Macromatic time delay relays provide precise timing control for your industrial automation needs. Available as single function or multi-function units, these relays offer various timing functions to match your specific requirements. Some functions are triggered by input voltage alone, while others require additional triggers like control switches or power triggers that activate after input voltage is present.

Choosing the right timing function is crucial for optimal system performance, efficiency, and equipment protection. Unlike simple timers, industrial time delay relays must operate reliably in harsh environments and provide consistent timing even with power fluctuations. Our comprehensive guide below will help you select the perfect Macromatic time delay relay for your application while explaining practical implementations in various industries.

Categorized Timing Functions - Features & Applications

On Delay

The time delay begins upon input voltage application. At the end of the time delay, the output is energized. Input voltage must be removed to reset the time delay relay & de-energize the output.

Ideal Applications: Motor startup sequencing, equipment warm-up periods, process initialization, delayed alarms

Available Product Series:

Interval On

Upon the application of input voltage, the output is energized, and the time delay begins. At the end of the time delay, the output is de-energized. Input voltage must be removed to reset the time delay relay.

Ideal Applications: Temporary pump operation, cooling system cycles, material feeding systems, timed reset controls

Available Product Series:

THR-105

Off Delay

Upon application of input voltage, the time delay relay is ready to accept a trigger. When the trigger is applied, the output is energized. Upon removal of the trigger, the time delay begins. At the end of the time delay, the output is de-energized. Any application of the trigger during the time delay will reset the time delay and the output remains energized.

Ideal Applications: Exhaust fan control, security lighting, conveyor shutdown sequencing, maintained pushbutton with timed release

Available Product Series:

THR-116

On / Off Delay

When power is applied to the time delay relay, it enters a standby state ready to receive a trigger signal. The relay functions through two distinct timing phases: Phase 1 (Trigger ON): Once the trigger signal is received, the relay initiates timing period t1. After t1 elapses, the output contacts energize. If the trigger signal is removed during t1, the timing period resets and the output remains de-energized. Phase 2 (Trigger OFF): When the trigger signal is removed while the output is energized, the relay begins timing period t2. The output contacts remain energized throughout t2. After t2 elapses, the output de-energizes and the relay returns to standby mode. If the trigger is reapplied during t2, the timing period resets and the output stays energized. The relay is ready to begin a new cycle once it returns to standby state.

Ideal Applications: Emergency power supply control, orderly equipment shutdown, coolant pumping after main power loss, retaining control logic during brief power interruptions

Available Product Series:

THR-141

Flasher OFF

Upon application of input voltage, the output is de-energized and the time delay begins. At the end of the time delay, the output is energized and remains in that condition for the time delay. At the end of the time delay, the output is de-energized and the sequence repeats until input voltage is removed.

Ideal Applications: Warning lights, attention indicators, process status indicators that start in OFF state

Available Product Series:

THR-108

Flasher ON

Upon application of input voltage, the output is energized and the time delay begins. At the end of the time delay, the output is de-energized and remains in that condition for the time delay. At the end of the time delay, the output is energized and the sequence repeats until input voltage is removed.

Ideal Applications: Alert indicators, facility notification systems, process status indicators that start in ON state

Available Product Series:

THR-109

Repeat Cycle OFF

Upon application of input voltage, the time delay (t1) begins. At the end of the time delay (t1), the output is energized and remains in that condition for the time delay (t2). At the end of this time delay, the output is de-energized and the sequence repeats until input voltage is removed.

Ideal Applications: Asymmetrical cycling operations where initial delay is required, irrigation systems, industrial process sampling, precision dispensing

Available Product Series:

THR-131

Repeat Cycle ON

Upon application of input voltage, the output is energized and the time delay (t1) begins. At the end of the time delay (t1), the output is de-energized and remains in that condition for the time delay (t2). At the end of this time delay, the output is energized and the sequence repeats until input voltage is removed.

Ideal Applications: Chemical dosing systems, HVAC cycling where immediate activation is needed, lubrication systems, mixing operations

Available Product Series:

THR-151

Single Shot

Upon application of input voltage, the time delay relay is ready to accept a trigger. When the trigger is applied, the output is energized and the time delay begins. During the time delay, the trigger is ignored. At the end of the time delay, the output is de-energized and the time delay relay is ready to accept another trigger.

Ideal Applications: Press operations, pulse extension, precise dispensing control, single-cycle automation processes, ignoring unwanted input signals

Available Product Series:

Watchdog

Upon application of input voltage, the time delay relay is ready to accept a trigger. When the trigger is applied, the output is energized and the time delay begins. At the end of the time delay, the output is de-energized unless the trigger is removed and re-applied prior to time out (before time delay elapses). Continuous cycling of the trigger at a rate faster than the time delay will cause the output to remain energized indefinitely.

Ideal Applications: Process monitoring, critical system supervision, fail-safe operations, monitoring PLC program execution, equipment protection

Available Product Series:

THR-113

Triggered On Delay

Upon application of input voltage, the time delay relay is ready to accept a trigger. When the trigger is applied, the time delay begins. At the end of the time delay, the output is energized and remains in that condition as long as either the trigger is applied or the input voltage remains. If the trigger is removed during the time delay, the output remains de-energized & the time delay is reset.

Ideal Applications: Anti-nuisance alarms, equipment startup verification, operator-initiated processes with verification period

Interactive Time Delay Relay Selection Guide

Finding the right timing function for your application is crucial for optimal system performance. Use our selection guide below to identify the best option based on your specific requirements.

Step 1: What initiates your timing sequence?

Input voltage application → Consider On Delay, Interval On, Flasher functions

External trigger → Consider Single Shot, Off Delay, Watchdog functions

Step 2: When should the output activate?

Immediately upon initiation → Consider Interval On, Flasher ON, True Off Delay

After timing completes → Consider On Delay, Flasher OFF, Repeat Cycle OFF

Step 3: Is cyclic operation required?

Yes, with equal on/off times → Consider Flasher ON or Flasher OFF

Yes, with different on/off times → Consider Repeat Cycle ON or Repeat Cycle OFF

No, one-time operation → Consider On Delay, Off Delay, Single Shot

Step 4: Is monitoring or supervision a primary requirement?

Yes → Consider Watchdog function

No → Consider standard timing functions

Need Help Selecting the Right Time Delay Relay?

Our automation experts are ready to assist you in finding the perfect Macromatic time delay relay for your specific application requirements.

Contact Our Technical Support Team

Industry-Specific Applications

Macromatic time delay relays serve critical functions across various industries. Below are specific applications in key sectors:

Manufacturing

On Delay: Used in assembly line sequencing to ensure equipment starts in the correct order, preventing mechanical jams and product damage.

Single Shot: Ideal for press operations where precise timing of a single action is required. Prevents double-triggering from bouncing contacts.

Repeat Cycle: Used in parts feeding systems, coating applications, and material handling with precise timing requirements.

Building Automation

Off Delay: Keeps ventilation fans running for preset periods after occupancy sensors no longer detect movement.

True Off Delay: Controls lighting systems to provide safe exit periods after power is removed.

Flasher: Controls indicator lights for security systems and emergency notifications with consistent timing.

Water Treatment

On/Off Delay: Controls pump sequencing to prevent water hammer in distribution systems.

Watchdog: Monitors critical treatment processes and provides fail-safe operation if control signals are interrupted.

Repeat Cycle: Manages chemical dosing systems with precise timing for optimal treatment.

Agriculture

Repeat Cycle ON/OFF: Controls greenhouse misting, ventilation, and irrigation systems with programmable intervals.

Triggered Delayed Interval: Manages feeding systems with precise timing requirements.

On Delay: Sequences startup of irrigation pumps to prevent pressure surges in distribution lines.

Time Delay Relay Troubleshooting Guide

Even the most reliable time delay relays can experience issues. Use this troubleshooting guide to identify and resolve common problems:

Relay Not Energizing

Possible Cause: Incorrect voltage
Solution: Verify input voltage matches relay specifications

Possible Cause: Improper wiring
Solution: Check all connections according to wiring diagram

Possible Cause: Failed relay
Solution: Test relay with known working circuit or replace

Inconsistent Timing

Possible Cause: Electromagnetic interference
Solution: Isolate relay from sources of EMI, use shielded cable

Possible Cause: Voltage fluctuations
Solution: Add voltage regulation to the control circuit

Possible Cause: Temperature extremes
Solution: Ensure relay is operating within specified temperature range

Premature Relay Failure

Possible Cause: Excessive switching frequency
Solution: Verify application is within rated cycles

Possible Cause: Operating beyond ratings
Solution: Check current and voltage levels

Possible Cause: Environmental stress
Solution: Consider enclosures for harsh environments

Relay Chattering

Possible Cause: Unstable input signal
Solution: Add input filtering or debounce circuit

Possible Cause: Mechanical vibration
Solution: Secure mounting to reduce vibration

Possible Cause: Input voltage too low
Solution: Ensure minimum operating voltage is met

Installation Best Practices

Proper Wiring Techniques

Sample Wiring Diagram for Time Delay Relays

Important Installation Tips:

Mounting: Mount relays vertically when possible to optimize heat dissipation. Maintain minimum spacing between relays (typically 1/2 inch).
Wire Size: Use wire sizes appropriate for the current rating (typically 14-18 AWG for control circuits).
Separation: Keep control wiring separate from power wiring to reduce interference.
Protection: Include transient voltage protection for installations in areas prone to lightning or power surges.
Ventilation: Ensure adequate airflow around relay installations, especially in enclosed panels.

Choosing Similar Functions: Quick Comparison

Function Comparison	Key Differences	When to Choose
On Delay vs. Triggered On Delay	On Delay starts timing with power application; Triggered On Delay requires a separate control signal	Choose On Delay for automatic operation; Choose Triggered On Delay for operator-initiated processes
Flasher OFF vs. Repeat Cycle OFF	Flasher OFF has equal on/off times; Repeat Cycle OFF allows different timing for on and off states	Choose Flasher OFF for simple blinking; Choose Repeat Cycle OFF for applications requiring different durations
Single Shot vs. Watchdog	Single Shot ignores triggers during timing; Watchdog can be reset by retriggering	Choose Single Shot for one-time operations; Choose Watchdog for supervision applications
Off Delay vs. True Off Delay	Off Delay requires a separate trigger; True Off Delay starts timing when power is removed	Choose Off Delay for control circuit applications; Choose True Off Delay for power loss situations

Common Applications for Time Delay Relays

Motor Starting

Control motor startup sequences and prevent current surges using On Delay or Interval On functions. Reduce mechanical stress and extend equipment life.

Machine Control

Automate machine cycle timing with Repeat Cycle or Flasher functions for consistent operation. Ensure precise timing in manufacturing processes.

Pump Control

Prevent pump damage with proper sequencing using On/Off Delay or True Off Delay functions. Manage lead/lag pump operations efficiently.

Process Monitoring

Monitor critical processes with Watchdog function to ensure continuous operation. Provide fail-safe protection for essential systems.

Lighting Control

Manage facility lighting with Off Delay or True Off Delay functions. Create energy-efficient lighting schedules with precise timing.

HVAC Systems

Control ventilation fans, heating elements, and cooling systems with appropriate timing functions to maintain optimal environments.

Time Delay Relay Terminology Glossary

Energize

When the relay's coil is powered, causing the contacts to change state from their normal position.

De-energize

When power is removed from the relay's coil, allowing contacts to return to their normal state.

Time Delay

The predetermined period before a change in the output state occurs.

Trigger

An electrical signal that initiates a timing sequence in many relay functions.

Cycle

A complete sequence of operations that returns to the starting condition.

Normally Open (NO)

Contacts that are open (non-conducting) when the relay is de-energized.

Normally Closed (NC)

Contacts that are closed (conducting) when the relay is de-energized.

SPDT

Single Pole, Double Throw contact configuration - one common terminal connects to either an NO or NC terminal.

DPDT

Double Pole, Double Throw contact configuration - two independent SPDT switching arrangements.

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the difference between single function and multi-function time delay relays?

Single function relays are designed to perform one specific timing function, making them simple to set up and use. They're ideal for dedicated applications where the timing function won't change. Multi-function relays offer multiple timing functions in one unit, providing greater flexibility and allowing users to change functions as needed. While they require proper configuration for your specific application, they reduce inventory requirements and provide versatility for changing needs.

How do I determine which timing function is right for my application?

Consider your application's sequence requirements: Does your process need a delay before activation (On Delay), a timed shutdown after activation (Off Delay), or cyclic operation (Flasher/Repeat Cycle)? Also consider what triggers the timing sequence (power application or control signal) and what happens when power is removed. Review the timing diagrams and application examples above or use our selection guide. For complex requirements, contact our technical support team for personalized assistance.

What are typical time delay ranges available for Macromatic relays?

Macromatic time delay relays typically offer adjustable time ranges from 0.1 seconds up to 100 hours, depending on the specific model. Each relay has selectable time ranges to provide precise control for your application. Most models feature multi-turn potentiometers for fine-tuning the timing and clear markings for accurate setting. For extremely precise timing requirements, digital models are available with accuracy typically within ±0.5% of the set time.

Can Macromatic time delay relays handle harsh industrial environments?

Yes, Macromatic time delay relays are designed for industrial environments. They feature rugged enclosures with high impact resistance, wide operating temperature ranges (-40°C to +70°C for most models), and high immunity to electrical noise. Many models also offer IP20 finger-safe terminals and high vibration resistance. For extremely harsh environments, consider enclosures and proper installation practices as outlined in our installation guide above.

What's the expected operational life of these time delay relays?

Macromatic time delay relays are built for long-term reliability. The mechanical life expectancy typically exceeds 10 million operations. Electrical life depends on the load being switched but is typically 100,000+ operations at full load. The solid-state timing circuits are designed for consistent operation throughout the relay's lifespan. Macromatic backs their quality with a 5-year warranty, substantially longer than the industry standard.