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Bobby, This is the Tesla Message Board, and its main focus is Tesla Coiling and High Voltage experimentation. However, since you discovered us, I'll give a shot at answering your question. The short answer to both of your questions is NO. Here's why: Best regards, -- Bert --
: I'm trying to wire up a remote thermostat on an electric heater for a
: boat. I've got a relay that rated at 250vac @ 5 amps. Am I safe in
: assmuing that the equivalent of that is 12 amps at 120 volts?
: Also if I used a relay rated at 50 amps 12 volts, could I use that for
: 120 volts ac?
: Thansk
:
:
In general, any relay you use must be rated for the current, voltage, and operating frequency (AC or DC) that you are planning to switch. Your relay's contacts are rated to safely switch a maximum of 5 amps at 250 volts AC (or below). It may not handle 10 amps at 120 volts AC for an extended period without overheating, and it may also arc and pit excessively when trying to break the 10 amp load. If you try to carry significantly more than 5 amps (AC or DC), the contacts can overheat and may even even weld together. Finally, a relay rated to handle 12 volts (AC or DC) should not be used to switch a 120 volt circuit. The relay's insulation and contact spacing may not be sufficient for the task. A 120 or 240 volt relay with contacts rated for 10 amps (or higher) is what you need.
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