What is the purpose of a pilot relay in control circuits?

Prepare for the NCCER Electrical Level 2 Control Systems and Fundamental Concepts exam. Utilize flashcards and multiple choice questions with hints and explanations. Ensure success on your exam!

A pilot relay is used to transfer a control signal to another circuit while keeping the control and load sides isolated. When the control device energizes the pilot coil, its contacts operate in a separate circuit to switch or enable other equipment, such as a contactor, indicators, or interlocks. This allows safe and sequenced control because a low-power control signal can drive the load circuit without exposing the control side to high voltage or current. It also enables one control signal to control multiple devices or create interlocks in a circuit.

That’s why this option is the best: it describes transferring a signal or status from a control device to another circuit to achieve safe, coordinated control. The other ideas aren’t the primary role of a pilot relay—high current switching is usually handled by the main power device, measuring voltage isn’t done by a relay, and storing energy isn’t a relay function.