The inrush current is higher than the sealed current for a relay because the air gaps are larger and the armature is made of laminated metal.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The inrush current is higher than the sealed (or hold) current because when the relay coil is first energized, the armature is in its most distant position from the core, resulting in minimal magnetic coupling and thus requiring a higher initial current to overcome the reluctance of the air gap and pull the armature in. The construction materials or air gap sizes when the relay is sealed do not directly cause the inrush current to be higher.

The Inrush Current Is Higher Than the Sealed Current for a Relay