What are relay sockets? 

Relay sockets are accessories for electromechanical switches, typically designed to help mount a relay by providing an electrical interface between it and a circuit. Operationally, a relay socket is like an electrically controlled switch, powered by an electromagnet. Thus, a relay socket becomes an accessory part of an electrical circuit, where the relay remains plugged in the female terminal of the socket, and the latter remains wired to the circuit. 

Types of relay sockets

There are different types of relay sockets available in the market, depending on the type of relay they are designed for or compatible with. For instance, the most common types of relay sockets based on the types of relays include:

• Latching relay sockets 
• Non-latching relay sockets 
• General purpose relay sockets 
• Solid-state relay sockets

Other than these, relay sockets can also be categorised into their corresponding mounting types. These include panel mounts and flange mounts. The mounting styles, however, are not versatile and also depend on the design of the relay socket.

Why are relay sockets used?

Relay sockets are used to make sure that relays are easily and effortlessly mounted and replaced within an electrical circuit. If the relay sockets are wired onto the circuit, then relays can be easily installed and replaced by plugging them into the socket's female terminal. As such, relay sockets are extensively used in applications that demand frequent relay replacements.