In the Mondeo there is a group of consumers that require a high operating current for themselves compared to others. In order to guarantee maximum safety there, with the smallest possible wire cross-section, Ford controls such consumers from the central "electrical cabinet" by means of a separate switching relay. A weak switching current flows through the switch here in order to switch the operating current to the consumer in the relay.
Different tasks - switching current and operating current
When the corresponding consumer is switched on, the switching current in the switching relay acts on the electromagnetic coil. The coil attracts a strong contact with the force of the spring and thus closes the circuit of the operating current to the consumer. In order for the consumer to receive as much voltage as possible, the operating current flows to it directly along a direct path through the relay. The relay contacts are reliable enough to "tolerate" strong currents for a long time. In addition, the intended "bypass" through the relay shortens the path of the operating current. Advantage: the shorter the "road" for the current, the less voltage loss between the switch and the consumer.
Perform different tasks - special types of relays
To improve visibility and troubleshooting, most relays in the Mondeo are grouped on special fixed plates. In addition, other types of relays "work" in the on-board network, which, near their working place, perform certain functions. These include, for example, the relay for direction indicators, windscreen wipers and preheating in diesel Mondeos.