Types of Protective Relays: Protective relays are categorized by their mechanism (electromagnetic, static, mechanical) and function (time-based, current, voltage). Static Relays: Use electronic components without moving parts. In this guide, we'll explore what protection relays are, how they're classified, the types. An electrically operated switch like a relay plays a key role in controlling an electrical circuit through an independent low-power signal, otherwise used where a number of circuits should be controlled through the single signal. Its primary function is to detect abnormal conditions, such as.