What protects the motor during startup?

The unloader valve plays a crucial role during the startup of a motor by regulating the pressure within the system. When the motor starts, it can create a high initial load due to the resistance of the system. The unloader valve helps to alleviate this pressure, preventing the motor from experiencing excessive strain or damage. By releasing pressure before the motor takes on the full load, it ensures a smoother startup and protects the motor from potential failure caused by overloading.

In contrast, a safety switch is primarily designed to cut power during unsafe conditions, while a thermal fuse is meant to interrupt the circuit in response to overheating, providing protection after excessive temperatures have been detected. A power relay is responsible for controlling the flow of electricity to the motor but does not specifically regulate startup pressures. Thus, the unloader valve is the component specifically intended to protect the motor during the critical startup phase.