What is the use of fuse?
A fuse serves as a vital component in electrical circuits by providing protection against overcurrent or short circuits. Its primary function is to safeguard both the circuit itself and the electrical devices connected to it. By using a fuse, more expensive or hard-to-find components can be spared from damage in case of energy spikes.
Fuses are particularly useful in smaller devices where they protect other circuit components. In residential settings, they play a crucial role in reducing the risk of fire-related incidents and fatalities. When connected to the home wiring system, a fuse acts as a protective element in the phase. It consists of a thin wire with high resistance and a specific current limit. If the current exceeds this limit, the wire burns and breaks the contact due to its thinness. Consequently, whenever an overload occurs, the fuse interrupts the contact, effectively safeguarding the connected devices.
What is the purpose of a fuse?
Fuses are employed to protect various electrical circuits and equipment, ranging from individual devices like refrigerators, air conditioners, and televisions to entire households. When the current surpasses the allowed value (which the fuse is designed for), the fuse melts and isolates the circuit from the power supply. This protective action prevents equipment damage. I would advise using a fuse whenever possible.
It is important to note that a fuse or circuit breaker primarily protects the utility provider’s infrastructure rather than the equipment, individuals, or property. Any claims suggesting otherwise are false and often stem from opportunistic litigation. Local regulations typically mandate the utility provider to drop the load from their system in case of equipment failure.
In essence, a fuse is a fundamental safety device used in homes and electrical circuits. When excessive current flows through it, the fuse’s metal melts, thereby isolating the circuit. Fuses offer protection against overcurrent, short circuits, overload, load imbalances, and device failures. They serve as an automatic means of disconnecting power to a faulty system, commonly referred to as automatic disconnection of supply (ADS). While circuit breakers can serve as an alternative to fuses, they possess distinct characteristics.
A fuse consists of a smaller wire enclosed within a medium that manages heat. It is inserted into a circuit, and when excessive current flows, the smaller fusible wire heats up and melts. This action opens the circuit, effectively disconnecting the overcurrent condition. Without a fuse, overcurrent could cause the cable to heat up excessively, leading to severe damage or even a fire.
Fuses are calibrated to the maximum current that a cable in a circuit can safely carry without overheating the insulation.
Fuses are primarily used for protecting wiring and point loads such as computers, motors, batteries, or other devices. Their main purpose is to protect the wiring within buildings, serving as the first line of defense against overload situations. In some cases, fuses are also chosen to protect the loads themselves when the wiring is already adequately protected. Nowadays, fuses are commonly found in small devices, while fuse boxes are used in power panels at the entry point of electricity in buildings. It is important to note that the practice of placing a penny under a fuse to restore current should be avoided.
In summary, a fuse is a protective device utilized in electrical circuits. Its three fundamental purposes are:
1. Protecting the circuit and electrical equipment: Fuses safeguard circuits and electrical equipment from overcurrent and short circuits, ensuring their efficient and safe operation for an extended lifespan.
2. Protecting human life: Fuses protect individuals from electric shock, which can result in loss of consciousness or even death.
3. Preventing property damage from electrical fires: Excessive current and short circuits are major causes of fires. Fuses help interrupt the current when it exceeds its limit, effectively mitigating the risk of fire in electrical circuits.
