What is an electric fuse and how does it work?
What Is An Electric Fuse? An electric fuse is a thin conductor designed to break a circuit by melting or separating if a fault causes the flow of excessive current. A fuse is a weak point intentionally placed in the circuit, so the fuse is sacrificed if something goes wrong.
How does a fuse panel in a car work?
A fuse panel in a car is usually near the batteries to protect the rest of the wires in the vehicle. If a high current occurs from a short circuit or an overloaded circuit, the wire inside the electric fuse melts. This breaks the circuit, and the current stops flowing. An electric fuse essentially gives up its life to stop the flow of electricity.
What is the function of a thermal fuse?
A fuse used to protect a circuit is a thermal device. By that I mean, it is designed to melt open and break the current flow in a circuit where the current attempts to exceed the value marked on the fuse at its nominal value and at the fuses operating ambient temperature.
Why is it important to choose the correct fuse size?
People also use fuses regularly in sensitive circuitry because they react quickly and can protect sensitive electronic devices. Choosing the correct electric fuse size is important because an undersized fuse can stop circuits from operating by cutting the power at low currents. An oversized fuse can allow too much current to flow.
Why do fuses need to be used to prevent overcurrent?
This keeps the excessive current from continuing down the circuit to more expensive equipment. Fuses can also help make your control systems UL and NEC compliant. However, they are not the only devices that you can use to protect your gear from overcurrent.
Do I need a fuse at the top of the wire?
No, you want the local fuse to stop the current flow quickly. The local fuse is rated just above the normal current flow that the circuit can safely supply. a fuse is need anywhere you apply voltage to protect the wire from excessinve amperage or overload. Some say it is ‘to protect the user’.