How does a relay with inverse-time characteristics behave as the current increases?

A relay with inverse-time characteristics is designed to operate more quickly as the current exceeds a predetermined threshold. This behavior is critical in protective relaying; as the magnitude of the fault current increases, the relay's response time decreases.

In practical terms, this means that under conditions of overload or fault, if the current rises above a specific level, the time it takes the relay to trip is significantly reduced. This functionality is crucial because it helps in minimizing damage to connected equipment by ensuring that faults are cleared swiftly, thereby preventing prolonged exposure to high fault currents.

Thus, as the current increases, the relay's operating time decreases, leading to a faster reaction to potentially damaging situations. This relationship between current and response time emphasizes the importance of inverse-time characteristics in ensuring the safety and reliability of electrical systems.