One of the control devices is the power relay. It is one of the most often used controls for controlling compressors in refrigeration and air-conditioning. The power relay is also referred to as the main conductor. It is used to apply the main line voltage to the motor circuit. The coil of the relay is usually operated by voltages lower than the line provides. This means that it uses a transformer for the lower control-voltages (see Fig. 14-1).
Magnetic contactors are normally used for starting polyphase motors, either squirrel cage or single phase. Contactors may be connected at any convenient point in the main circuit between the fuses and the motor. Small control wires (using low voltage) may be run between the contactor and the point of control.