Transistor as Relay Setup: Tips for Quicker Circuit Release

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around optimizing a circuit setup for trans brakes in drag cars, specifically focusing on achieving a quicker release of the circuit using transistors instead of magnetic relays. Participants explore the technical aspects of current requirements and potential delays in the system.

Discussion Character

  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested
  • Exploratory

Main Points Raised

  • One participant expresses a desire to replace a magnetic relay with a transistor to achieve a quicker circuit release, indicating a lack of familiarity with transistor operation.
  • Another participant suggests that knowledge of the solenoid's current requirements in Amps is essential for selecting an appropriate transistor, noting that the transistor must be able to handle the current.
  • A participant provides specific current details, stating that solenoids pull between 1-6 amps, with a preference for the circuit to handle at least 20 amps, and mentions the operational time of the solenoid being limited to 10 seconds.
  • One participant raises a question about the potential delay being caused by the solenoid itself, suggesting that a flywheel diode might be contributing to the delay and that adjustments to the protective circuit could be beneficial.
  • Another participant inquires about access to the solenoid's ground wire, proposing that placing an electronic switch in that wire might be a simpler solution than modifying the "hot" wire.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants have not reached a consensus on the best approach to achieve a quicker release, and multiple competing views regarding the causes of delay and potential solutions remain. The discussion is ongoing and unresolved.

Contextual Notes

Participants have not provided specific datasheets or part numbers for the relay or brake, which may limit the ability to make precise recommendations. The discussion also highlights the dependence on the solenoid's characteristics and the protective circuit's design.

462chevelle
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I'm looking for some help setting up a circuit system. Were currently using a magnetic type trigger relay. I am trying to get a quicker release of the circuit. Its for the trans brakes on our drag cars.
Here is what i was thinking, this is of course a very rough and first draft of my thoughts. I am not sure how transistors work or what kind of problems i would have doing this but I am willing to learn.
 

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hi there

not quite drawn like that but a close attempt :smile:

before a suitable transistor could be suggested, we would need to know the current in Amps that the solenoid requires to be operated. as the transistor would have to switch this amount of current

cheers
Dave
 
Ya, my paint drawing skills suck, but you get the idea i guess. No more than 10 amps, some solenoids pull 1-2 some pull 5-6. 12 volt systems. The solenoid will be triggered for no longer than 10 seconds at a time, since with a couple types of trans brakes. You have to use the brake for reverse. Though i would like the circuit to be able to handle 20 amps at a minimum.
 
Were currently using a magnetic type trigger relay. I am trying to get a quicker release of the circuit.

I gather there's a noticeable delay now between operating your switch and the actual solenoid release?

Help the folks here help you...

two questions that'll help get you an optimal fix:

1. Is there a datasheet or part number for the relay, and one for the brake ?

It's possible that your delay is in the brake solenoid itself.
If it is equipped with a "flywheel diode" to protect your mechanical relay or switch contact from arcing ,
a faster electronic relay would still have to wait while the solenoid's coil discharges into that protective flywheel diode.
Might be that just a tweak of that protective circuit would do the trick for you.

2. Do you have access to the solenoid's ground wire?

Sometimes it's easier to place an electronic switch in that wire than in the "hot" one..

old jim
 

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