Fuses

Speaking of electrical engineering and electronics – A fuse is a small device that provides overcurrent protection for electrical circuits. They are in use since the early days of electrical engineering.

Constructively the most vital component is a metal wire or strip that provides the electrical circuit’s needed protection. This wire/strip melts when there is an overflow of current, thereby interfering with the current flow. As a result of this breakage, your appliance remains safe from harmful impact/damage of overcurrent. With such a working phenomenon, it will not be wrong to name it as a sacrificial device. Once the wire/strip is melted, you will need to change it to complete the circuit and allow the current flow. Today, we can find a wide range of fusses for different devices, applications, circuit types, response times, etc. Let us have a look at some of them.

Types of Fuses and their application

It is one of the simplest electrical devices. Yet, its functions are critical when it comes to protecting any electrical circuit from damage. With such an important role in safety, you can find them in every circuit you see. However, the shapes, sizes, and ratings might change from one case to another. This article will talk about some of the most common types used in circuits that work in daily use appliances like Refrigerators, AC, TV, computer, car, or a bike. So let‘ have a look.

The AC and DC Fuses

These are the most basic types available in the market. An AC fuse is divided into two kinds, namely low voltage and high voltage fuses. The frequency of AC fuses changes its amplitude from 0 to 60 degrees every second. Whereas the DC fuse opens or breaks the circuit when there is excessive current flow through it. The only problem with the DC fuse is that the arc produced is complicated to extinct because there is no zero-current flow in the circuits. Therefore, the two types of AC and DC fuses are used interchangeably.

Thermal fuses

Thermal fuses are also known as one time or thermal cut-outs or thermal link fuses. They are highly temperature-sensitive fuses, and the core element is made of temperature-sensitive alloy. In these types, the core elements hold a mechanical spring contact which is generally close. When a higher current flows through the core component, the elements in it meltdown, which lead to releasing the spring mechanism; it also prevents the arc and fire and protects the connected circuits. However, they are commonly used and available online.

Cartridge fuses

These are also commonly used types. Here the core element is encased in a glass cylinder that is ceased by metal caps. It is placed in an appropriate holder. They are meant for use in specific holders. As they are made of clear glass, it is easy to determine if it is blown visually. There are many variants in this design, including fast blow and slow blow fuses. Some variants are encased in ceramic to withstand higher temperatures. At the same time, some of the options are filled with oil and sand and are perfect for higher voltage applications.

Automotive fuses

Automotive or car types are specifically designed for automotive systems that run for up to 32V to 42V. They come in blades from a colour code according to rates current. Some of these types are also used in other high-power circuits. They come in a plastic body with two metal caps to fit in the socket. Commonly they are used in automobiles for wiring and short circuit protection. However, the voltage and AMP varies according to the car type and model you are about to use it in. Likewise, an item suitable for the bike is much different in its capacity than the one used in cars.