Potter and Brumfield (P&B) Relays by TE Connectivity

Potter and Brumfield dates back to 1933, when Elbert E. Potter and Richard M. Brumfield founded the company in Princeton, Indiana. Initially producing timer controls, the company rapidly evolved into the United States’ leading manufacturer of electronic relay devices essential for controlling the flow of electric current in virtually every electrical system. As the company grew throughout the 20th century, it expanded into timers, circuit breakers, I/O modules, and connectors, supplying products for appliances, HVAC, automotive, and industrial markets.¹

The brand eventually became part of Siemens AG in 1986 and remained under Siemens until 1999, when TE Connectivity (then Tyco Electronics) acquired the Potter and Brumfield product line as part of a larger strategic purchase of Siemens Electromechanical Components. The integration provided TE access to a broad catalog of highly reliable switching components, strengthening its footprint across industrial, automotive, and commercial segments.²

Potter and Brumfield company buildings in Marion Kentucky in circa 1960 (left) and circa 1969 (right). (Image source: https://ourforgottenpassages.blogspot.com/2015/03/remembering-marions-potter-brumfield.html)

Today TE Connectivity’s Potter and Brumfield (P&B) brand is one of the widest selection of products for Electromechanical solid-state, and time-delay relays. These relays are used in a broad range of industries like HVAC and refrigeration, appliances, industrial automation, automotive and transportation, and security and access control. They offer multiple coil configurations, mounting options, contact forms, and durability levels making them a dependable choice for both design engineers and OEMs.

As the future of industrial automation and robotics takes shape, TE’s relays help ensure the safety and performance demanded by modern industrial safety applications.

Some popular products are the … KRPA, KUP Series, and for General Purpose, DigiKey has many options to choose from.

A representation of the some of the relays TE Connectivity has available. (Image source: TE Connectivity)

So what is a relay? A relay is basically an electrical middleman. One tiny current walks in and says, “Hey, I need help,” and the relay responds by flipping a switch that unleashes a much stronger current. Small signal, big action. Simple idea. Game-changing impact.

Think of a big warehouse – DigiKey for example.  A relay is basically the guardian of humans. How cool is that?  If a machine door opens, a relay cuts the power instantly. If a button was smashed, a relay sacrificed itself, literally welding contacts shut or popping open to make sure a motor never started unexpectedly. Engineers learned to design relays to fail safely, which is why safety relays are still trusted, even in the age of software. When you are looking at robots in the future of automation, we need relays to help isolate voltages and keeping people safe from moving components.

Digikey’s packing and shipping center relies on automation to keep things moving. (Image source: DigiKey)

DigiKey’s warehouse is pretty much automated which is crucial in shipping orders in a timely fashion. (Image source: DigiKey)

As industries continue to push toward higher levels of efficiency, electrification, and autonomy, the role of relays is more important than ever. They isolate voltages, manage loads, and maintain safety in environments where mechanical power meets digital intelligence. And with TE Connectivity’s continued investment and global expertise behind the Potter & Brumfield brand, this nearly century‑old legacy is not just preserved, TE has propelled it forward.

In every factory line, every smart machine, every climate system, and every emerging robotics platform, TE Connectivity’s Potter & Brumfield relays quietly ensure that power flows reliably, safely, and intelligently. It’s a testament to a brand that began with two innovators in 1933 and continues to shape the future of electrical protection and control today.

Additional Information:

• Did you know at DigiKey we have an Interconnect Page, click here to see more.
• Need a quote for a custom order – contact custom.orders@digikey.com.
• Have a question, ask our Engineering team on Techforum.
• We have several online calculators to help you with your next project.

Resources

1. https://www.company-histories.com/Potter-Brumfield-Inc-Company-History.html

2. https://www.e-sonic.com/en/suppliers/te-connectivity-p-b-brand-279/