What is Earth Leakage Relay | ELR?
An Earth Leakage Relay (ELR) is a protective device used in electrical installations to detect the leakage of current to the earth (ground). It is primarily designed to prevent electrical shock hazards and to minimize damage to electrical equipment caused by earth faults or ground faults.
Here’s how it typically works:
- Sensing: The ELR continuously monitors the electrical circuit for any imbalance between the outgoing current and the returning current. If there’s a discrepancy, it indicates that some current is leaking to the earth, which could potentially be dangerous.
- Detection: When the ELR detects such an imbalance, it quickly cuts off the power supply to the circuit, thereby preventing further leakage and mitigating the risk of electrical shock or damage to equipment.
- Adjustment: ELRs usually allow for adjustment of sensitivity to cater to different installation requirements and to minimize the chances of false alarms.
ELRs are commonly used in various applications where electrical safety is crucial, such as residential, commercial, and industrial settings. They play a vital role in ensuring compliance with safety regulations and standards related to electrical installations.
