Once a protection relay detects a fault, it will operate automatically and will close down the breaker's trip circuit. This way the faulty circuit will be disconnected from the system and the circuit breaker will be open. It has a set of input terminals for one or more control signals, and a set of operating contact terminals. Engineering use: Relays are used on feeders, transformers, buses, motors, generators, and transmission lines to protect equipment and improve system. In electrical engineering, a protective relay is a relay device designed to trip a circuit breaker when a fault is detected.