Fuses are safety devices designed to protect electrical circuits during power surges and overloads. They are plugged into electrical circuits with a non-combustible housing and an integrated thin wire component. They interrupt the current flow by overheating and melting the wire, thus preventing damage, fire, or electrocution during faults or tripping.
How Do They Work?
Fuses work straightforwardly. Each fuse carries a thin metal strip or wire known as a resistor that acts as a link in circuits. These resistors are made up of a variety of different metals. Among these, copper is a perfect choice and is widely used due to its thin layer of tin coating that protects against corrosion.
A resistor melts by responding to an excessive current that generates heat. This breaks and stops the current flow of exceeded voltages in the circuits. It has advantages that do not produce gas, sparks, or electrical discharges.
Types of Fuses
There is a wide range of different fuses available on the market, each with various applications. However, the most popular and standard fuses are the cartridge types. Some of the common and available fuses include:
- Square Body Fuses
- Tag Fuses (with various subtypes)
- Cartridge Fuses
- Bottle Fuses
- Thermal Fuses
- Car Fuses
- Resettable and Non-Resettable Fuses
Cartridge Fuses
Cartridge fuses are inexpensive safety devices designed to protect electrical circuits from overloads. They feature a contact point at each end and are cylindrical in shape. They are usually manufactured from glass, ceramic, or porcelain. Cartridge fuses are available in various types. They are easy to change, with different standard ratings available to choose from. The ratings of the fuses determine their functionality, and it would help to choose a slightly higher rating than required. This would provide a fuse with the ability to function better in the event of high voltages and prevent damage.
Typical Applications of Fuses
- Fuses are widely employed for everyday applications with a wide range of uses. The primary role of a fuse is to break the circuit during an overload or high voltages exceeding normal voltages.
- They are ideal for preventing electrocution and fires by reducing the risks of short circuits and are essential for every household electrical system.
- They are also a crucial part of the control board panel (consumer units or fuse boxes) that breaks the power supply during overloads.
Enrgtech also carries fuse kits, ideal for various applications beyond industrial appliances. Visit our website to explore the different varieties of fuses, kits, and other products at the most affordable prices on the market.
