A strong test and maintenance program will keep protective relays in a high state of readiness and help utilities avoid equipment damage and prolonged downtime. Check for any signs of damage, wear, or corrosion on the relay's exterior, including the contacts, insulators, and. Relion protection and control relays for several application reduce complexity. Over time, both older electromechanical relays and newer solid-state or microprocessor-based relays can wear down or fail in ways that are. Protection systems play a key role in ensuring the safe and reliable operation of the entire electrical grid including generation, transmission, and distribution for utility and industrial applications.