AC Relays in Multisim?

[lacy]

Since I started using Multisim 2001 I have had this question. As you know, most of the relay coils are DC activated. I was curious as how you can use these in AC applications. I have tried using these in AC apps, but the only problem is the contacts open and close at the AC frequency within the Simulator. There are industrial applications where the coils are AC instead of DC. Three Phase Motor Starters, Pump Motor Controls and just about anything run on 3-Phase in an industrial setting use AC controlled Relays.

Is there a model of an AC relay available for Multisim? If so, where could I find it?

Just a note. I tried using the DC relays with a bridge rectifier and a large electrolytic capacitor. This works, but is really inconvienient to implement. It just adds a lot of uncecessary component to a simulation. Also I have just modelled the AC voltage as Equivalent DC. That also works, but there are some drawbacks when your design has imbedded control transformers.

Thanks for any suggestoins in advance.

[lacy]

Bumping this to the top to see if I can get a response.

[nestor-sg]

Lacy, look for the ENERGIZING_COIL_AC in the component browser, is under the Electromechanical parts. Use it as a coil to close relays.

[lacy]

I found ENERGIZE_COIL and ENERGIZE_COIL_TIMED. I did not find ENERGIZE_COIL_AC anywhere. The one ENERGIZE_COIL that I did find is modeled in the DC format just like all the other relays.

If what I am looking for is not possible at this time then it could be something to add to the requested features list for later. The only reason this is even an issue (at least for me) is the fact that there are numerous applications for AC relays in industrial apps. especially when it comes to ground fault and phase monitoring of 3-phase systems. I can work around this minor thing, but it would be nice to have just a relay for AC applications.

Thanks for you help and reply.

[nestor-sg]

Sorry Lacy, I just checked and is included in the Edu edition not in the Pro editions... I will file a feature request so they can discuss adding that component to the Pro package. 

Pro and Edu have many components and functions that are particular of that edition, for example, the 3D breadboard view is available in Edu but not in Pro...