An overload relay is a protective device that is designed to protect electrical motors from damage due to excessive current draw. It works by continuously monitoring the current flowing through the motor and tripping a set of contacts when the current exceeds a predetermined level. This interrupts the power supply to the motor, which effectively shuts it down until the issue causing the excessive current draw has been resolved. Overload relays are typically used in conjunction with electrical motors to provide protection against overheating and other forms of damage that can be caused by excessive current draw.
