answersLogoWhite

0

The current flowing through a cable supplying a load or loads depends on the combined power of those loads, and the size of the cable is chosen according to the anticipated load. If the cable is overloaded, then it will draw excessive current (an 'overload current') and overheat, and its insulation may eventually fail, and present a fire hazard. If one or other of the load devices develops a fault, then that device may draw significantly more current (a 'short-circuit current') than it should and it will fail. So, cables are subject to over currents -i.e. 'overload currents' or 'short-circuit currents'.

A fuse is an over current protective device. It is designed to disconnect the cable supplying a load or loads in the event of an overload or short-circuit current occurring either in the cable or in the loads. By doing so, it protects the cable as well as the load, from overheating and prevents the possibility of a fire.

All fuses work on the same principle. A fuse carriercontains a fuse link, or fuse element, which is connected in series with the cable and its load. When an overload current occurs, the fuse link melts, and creates a break in the circuit, disconnecting the cable. The fuse link is carefully manufactured so that the larger the over current, the faster it melts.

Fuses are rated in amperes, according to the maximum current they can continuously carry without melting, and are manufactured in a range of standard current ratings. What makes each fuse rating different is the cross-sectional area of their fuse link; the greater the cross-sectional area, the higher the current rating.

In your home, individual circuits are each protected by a fuse*, sized according to the current capacity of the individual circuit. These, in turn are protected by a larger fuse which protects all the circuits. The larger fuse is designed to operate only if one of the individual circuit fuses fails to operate quickly enough. By fusing individual circuits in this way, an over current should only affect an individual circuit, without affecting any of the healthy circuits.

There are a great many different types and design of fuse, according to their application and the magnitude of system voltage they are to operate. Fuses designed to operate on low voltage systems are physically quite small, whereas fuses designed to operate of high-voltage systems are physically quite large -but they all work on the same principle.

*In residences, fuses are now being replaced by miniature circuit breakers (MCBs), which can be reset after they have operated, unlike fuses which must be replaced.

User Avatar

Wiki User

9y ago

What else can I help you with?

Related Questions

What should an adult do if electrical devices stop working in a home?

To start from basics... Fuses.


What should an adult do if if electrical devices stop working in a newer home?

To start from basics... Fuses.


What are electrical fuses?

Safety devices used in electrical circuits.AnswerA fuse is an overcurrent protection device, and will operate in the event of a sustained overload current or a short-circuit current.


What happens when Shirley goes down to change the fuses?

Shirley changes the blown fuses to restore power to the affected electrical systems. This allows for the proper functioning of devices and appliances that were previously not working due to the blown fuses.


What is fusestat and fuses?

Fusestat is a type of fuse used in electrical systems to protect circuits from overloads and short circuits by interrupting the flow of current. Fuses are safety devices that consist of a metal wire or strip that melts when too much current flows through it, thereby breaking the circuit. They are designed to prevent damage to electrical components and reduce the risk of fire. Fuses come in various types and ratings to suit different applications and electrical loads.


What does the noncurrent-carrying wiring devices industry make?

Popular products include electrical conduits and fittings, boxes for outlets, switches, and fuses, and pole and transmission line devices


Are fuse used to detect electrical energy?

Fuses are overcurrent protection devices. If voltages get extreme they blow to save other components. So yes in a way they detect electrical energy.


How do fuses protect people?

Fuses protect people by acting as safety devices that interrupt electrical circuits when excessive current flows through them, which can occur due to short circuits or overloads. By melting and breaking the circuit, fuses prevent overheating, electrical fires, and potential electrocution. This ensures that electrical systems operate safely within their designed limits, thereby safeguarding both individuals and property from electrical hazards.


What if your reading material mentions switches fuses and circuit breakers as three of the most important devices for?

cutting off or isolating an electrical circuit


Why do fuses have different ratings?

Fuses have different ratings to accommodate the varying electrical loads in different circuits and appliances. Each fuse is designed to protect against overcurrent conditions by breaking the circuit when the current exceeds its rated capacity, preventing damage to wiring and devices. The rating ensures that the fuse can safely handle the normal operating current while providing adequate protection against faults. Selecting the appropriate fuse rating is crucial for safety and performance in electrical systems.


What information can be found in an electrical panel diagram?

An electrical panel diagram provides information about the layout and connections of electrical components in a building or system. It includes details on circuit breakers, fuses, wires, and other devices, helping to identify and troubleshoot electrical issues.


What are fuses in fuse box?

Fuses in a fuse box are protective devices that prevent electrical overloads by interrupting the flow of electricity when the current exceeds a safe level. They contain a metal strip that melts when too much current passes through, breaking the circuit and stopping the flow of electricity to prevent damage to wiring and connected devices. Once a fuse blows, it must be replaced to restore power. Fuses are an essential component of electrical safety in homes and buildings.