Understand Different Types of Fuses and its Applications.
A fuse is a crucial electrical component designed to safeguard circuits from damage by interrupting the flow of current when it exceeds a safe threshold. Fuses come in various shapes, sizes, and ratings, each serving a specific purpose.
What is a Fuse and How Does It Work?
A fuse contains a resistive element chosen for its melting point. When current passes through this element, it generates heat. Under normal conditions, the heat generated is insufficient to melt the element. However, if the current surpasses the fuse’s rated capacity, the element melts, breaking the circuit and preventing further damage.
Types of Fuses
Fuses are categorized into AC and DC types, each tailored to its respective circuit.
DC Fuses
- Cartridge Fuses: Commonly known as glass fuses, these have a resistive element encased in glass, offering easy visual inspection.
- Automotive Fuses: Designed for vehicles, these blade-shaped fuses come in various sizes and are color-coded by current rating.
- Resettable Fuses (Polyfuse): Self-resetting fuses containing conductive particles embedded in polymers, ideal for applications where replacement is difficult.
- Semiconductor Fuses: Utilized for ultrafast protection of semiconductor devices sensitive to current spikes.
- Overvoltage Suppression: Devices like NTCs and MOVs are used in conjunction with fuses to protect against voltage spikes.
AC Fuses
- High Voltage Fuses: Used in transmission lines, these fuses like AJT125 and ATQR4 handle high voltages.
- HRC Fuses: Consisting of a steatite envelope filled with quartz powder, they’re used for high fault currents.
- Expulsion Fuses: Filled with chemicals that produce extinguishing gasses, suitable for high-voltage applications.
- Low Voltage Fuses: Including cartridge fuses, ceramic fuses, drop out fuses, rewireable fuses, striker fuses, and switch fuses, tailored for low-voltage distribution networks.
Understanding the types and functions of fuses is essential for ensuring the safety and reliability of electrical systems. For detailed idea use this article as reference — https://components101.com/articles/different-types-of-fuses-and-their-applications
