HVAC Systems: These systems use thermal overload relays with temperature sensors for compressor and fan protection. Engineering use: Relays are used on feeders, transformers, buses, motors, generators, and transmission lines to protect equipment and improve system. A protective relay is an intelligent electrical device designed to detect faults in power systems and initiate corrective actions such as tripping a circuit breaker. They are intended to quickly identify a fault and isolate it so the balance of the system continue to run under normal conditions.