In this article we will be answering the question, “How do I mount a diaphragm Vacuum Relay?” and “How I mount a stacked vacuum relay?”. We will be diving into mounting options recommended by the manufacturers as well as other methods.
What is a Diaphragm / Stacked Vacuum Relay
In the diaphragm relay, the actuator is placed outside of the vacuum envelope. This simple, low cost design approach makes use of a thin molybdenum diaphragm which allows contact movement to be transferred into the vacuum package from the external motor assembly. This basic design is used in a large number of vacuum relay products.
The assembly containing the coil is the driving part of the relay and will be connected to the driver circuit. As voltage is applied to the coil, a magnetic field is built up and an electro-magnetic force is created. This force is used to move the mechanism and this the movable contact inside the vacuum envelope. The contact transfers from the N/C to the N/O position in SPDT and DPDT models or, in a SPST relays, opens or closes your high voltage circuit.
Mounting Options:
Because we specialize in vacuum relays through sales and information, we also handle surplus relays and old stock relays. We are the only source for surplus relays as we also dismantle surplus equipment. In doing so we have picked up a ton of tips and tricks including many mounting methods. Below will be many methods in no particular order:
Standard Flange Mounting Method
Each diaphragm type relay has a small flange at the base of the ceramic/dielectric stack. This flange is just a little bit bigger than the diameter of the lower body of the relay. Any hole drilled into a plate for mounting should be just large enough for the main body of the relay to fit through. The Standard Flange Mounting method is great for mounting many relays close together and in a small package. The heads of the screws used is what holds the relays in. Three small screws or 2 large screws can be used to secure the relay.
Optional Flange Mounting Method
Some diaphragm type relays come with a permanently mounted wide mounting flange. They will either have three holes or three slots to accept screws for mounting.
Spring Clip Mounting
Spring Clips are a quick and easy way to mount a relay. The easiest way to source these is to search for “fuse” clips that will clip the correct diameter of the relay body.
Strap / P-Clip Mounting
Straps and especially P-Clips are widely used in electrical work. They are widely available and easy to come by. There are even some with plastic and silicone inserts to help grip a relay.
Grommet Mounting
Grommets are widely available. They are sold in variety packs making it easy to find the one you need. They re available in rubber and in silicone versions.
SPST relays
SPDT relays
DPDT relays
About Max-Gain Systems
Max-Gain Systems, Inc specializes in vacuum relays, vacuum capacitors, insulator products, and other RF components. We offer vacuum capacitors and vacuum relays in Brand NEW, Oldstock NEW, and removed from working equipment tested and guaranteed good. Many customers require NEW, however, we test and rigorously check/test all of our remove from equipment parts. We can offer these at extreme discounts compared to the newly manufactured parts.
Max-Gain Systems, Inc. carries a full line of in-series, between series, right angle, T-shaped, quick connect, handie-talkie (BLACK), pigtails (coaxial jumpers), etc… RF adapters. Our RF adapter lines are constantly expanding. We keep our RF connector and adapter lines in stock. We ship both retail and wholesale quantities. To become a dealer / wholesale user, contact us with your potential usage.
Max-Gain Systems, Inc. is the number one supplier of fiberglass round hollow tube, square tube, square solid bar and round solid rod to the antenna manufacturing industry. We produce millions of feet a year for hundreds of different industries including but not limited to: marine / boating, aeronautical, agriculture, construction, emergency services, etc…. We have the unique ability to sell one piece or even a semi-truck full. Feel free to prototype using our fiberglass tube and rod then contact us for a quote on a production run. At production run quantities we can cut to your desired lengths at no additional charge, and we can also perform several different fabrications (example: drilling holes in precise locations along a tube) to ensure your delivered material is ready for assembly. We have several accessory items designed for our fiberglass including but not limited to: couplers, telescoping clamps, ferrules, etc…
Did you know? We will buy your used and overstock vacuum capacitors and vacuum relays?
Max-Gain Systems, Inc. is the one source to liquidate your excess inventory of vacuum capacitors and vacuum relays. REDUCE warehousing costs, REDUCE aging inventory & OPTIMIZE warehouse space by selling us your unwanted inventory. New and old stock, used and even removed from working equipment, one unit to one thousand plus, you can make money as well as go green. In addition, most of the surplus items we buy are able to go right back into facilities and into the hands of individuals that need a low cost replacement to keep their plants and broadcast stations up and running.
Sell your New and Used Overstock vacuum capacitors and vacuum relays by emailing us. Please include how many, the manufacturer’s part number, and their condition, along with your full contact information. We will reply within one business day.