Time-Cycling Device

a contact-making device that operates with a controlled time lag. It functions simultaneously as a contactor and a time-delay relay. The time interval between the instant when the device is fed an actuating signal and the instant when its main contacts close is maintained by means of a mechanical or electromagnetic time-delay device. Mechanical time-delay devices include dampers and anchor-escapement clock mechanisms; electromagnetic devices are usually magnetic dampers. A distinction is made between time-cycling devices with closing contacts, which are normally open, and those with opening contacts, which are normally closed. Time-cycling devices are used primarily to connect resistors in starting circuits of electric motors (seeSTARTING RESISTANCE).