Fuses are typically installed in the live wire and not in the neutral wire for several safety and functional reasons in electrical circuits. The primary purpose of a fuse is to protect against overcurrent situations that could lead to overheating, fire hazards, or damage to electrical equipment.
When a fault occurs in a circuit, such as a short circuit or an overload, the fuse wire melts due to the excessive current, interrupting the flow of electricity and thereby protecting the circuit.
The live wire, also known as the hot wire, carries current from the source (such as a power outlet) to the load (electrical appliance). Placing the fuse in the live wire ensures that any fault or excess current is detected and the circuit is promptly interrupted.
This arrangement ensures that the appliance or device is disconnected from the power source immediately, reducing the risk of electrical shock or fire.
In contrast, the neutral wire completes the circuit back to the source and typically carries the return current from the load to the electrical supply.
It is generally at near ground potential and is designed to carry current without interruption.
Fusing the neutral wire would not provide effective protection against faults because it would not interrupt the circuit when a fault occurs on the live side.
The fuse wire is connected in series with the live wire in electrical circuits.
This means that the current flowing through the circuit must pass through the fuse wire before reaching the load. This configuration ensures that the fuse can detect and respond to any excessive current conditions, thereby protecting the circuit and the connected equipment.
In summary, fuses are placed in the live wire because they are designed to protect against overcurrent conditions that could lead to hazards.
This configuration ensures effective interruption of the circuit in case of faults, providing safety and preventing damage to electrical components and appliances.