What does the overload relay assembly help protect in a motor starter?

The overload relay assembly is a crucial component of a motor starter designed specifically to protect the motor from overheating. It achieves this by monitoring the current drawn by the motor during operation. When the current exceeds the preset threshold for a defined period, indicating that the motor may be under excessive load or experiencing conditions that could lead to overheating (such as a stalled condition), the overload relay interrupts the power supply to the motor. This protective feature prevents potential damage to the motor windings and ensures the longevity of the motor, thereby maintaining safe operational conditions.

In contrast, other options address different concerns unrelated to the specific role of the overload relay assembly. For instance, protecting the power supply from surges, safeguarding the control circuit from overloads, or ensuring the interlock system's operational reliability pertain to separate protective functions typically managed by other components within the electrical system.