It is important to note that while the terminology is similar for North American and international fuses, the actual characteristics are usually quite different, due to the differences in standards to which the fuses are built.įor North American fuses, the breaking characteristics are defined as “fast-acting” and “time-delay.” Both versions come in either a standard glass, low-breaking capacity construction or in a sand-filled ceramic, high-breaking capacity construction. These are referred to a high-breaking capacity fuses. This sand acts as a protective barrier to prevent the fuse from shattering and spreading debris when it blows due to a severe overload event. Some fuses are filled with sand on the inside. If the metal overheats, it will melt, breaking the electrical connection. Any current that moves through the circuit flows through the metal inside the fuse. The end caps on standard fuses mate with matching terminals attached to the protected circuit. These are used for soldering directly to a circuit board. Some specialized end caps have a length of wire attached to each end called axial leads. The metal strip is attached on each end to a separate terminal on the outside of the fuse called an end cap. Typically fuses are constructed using a thin metal strip or filament sheathed in either a transparent glass or ceramic tube. When a traditional fuse disconnects or “blows” it must be removed and replaced with a new fuse. The essential component in a fuse is a metal wire or strip that will melt when the current exceeds the amount that the fuse is designed to withstand, opening the circuit path, and disconnecting the equipment from the power source. This is enclosed in a glass or ceramic tube and may be filled with sand for some specialized fuse types.Ī fuse is a built-in weak link in an electric circuit that provides overcurrent protection in a piece of equipment. In simplest terms, it is two metal caps with a wire or strip in-between. Fuse Product Line FuseĪ fuse is a replaceable circuit protection device that provides protection to both the equipment and the equipment operator in the event of a circuit overload. A fuse is a safety device that protects an electric circuit from excessive current. A circuit breaker is an automatic switch that prohibits the flow of electric current when it is rapidly overloaded or unusually stressed. This protection usually comes in one of two forms: a circuit breaker or a fuse. The main function is to provide protection to both the equipment and the equipment operator in the event of a circuit overload. More Information on Fuses and Fuse Holdersįuse Product Line | Fuse Holder Product Line | Design Strategies | Fuse Accessibility LimitationĮlectronic equipment is often designed with built-in circuit protection.

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