Directional relays are an essential component of relay protection schemes used in power network transmission and distribution systems. The relay sense the fault current in only one direction, the relay does not operate when the current in opposite direction. Contents: For simplicity in explaining the key ideas, we. The direction of current flow is a significant characteristic of generators: if reverse current is driven into either a DC or AC generator, it will act as a load and prevent the device from operating at its proper generating capacity.