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These are also known as Very Fast Acting, Super Rapid and High-Speed fusesįast Acting Fuses: these are a more general-purpose fuse typically used with cabling and sturdier components. Ultra-rapid fuses: typically used in sensitive circuitry and transistors to protect against short circuits, reacting almost instantaneously. The three principal fuse speeds available are: The time taken for a particular type of fuse to blow is called the fuse speed. Unsurprisingly for such a widely used component, fuses are available in a multitude of models and voltage capacities for use in different industrial, manufacturing and electronic settings. A double break, also known as a double switch, is a safety measure that requires two poles or switches to be activated to open or close a circuit
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A range of fuses are available to suit different power ratingsĭouble Break Combination Fuse Switch Units are a higher capacity model used to ensure an uninterrupted power supply to machinery and appliances. Porcelain fuse units provide first-rate protection from electrical overloads and short circuits. Different amp ratings are available, including 16, 32, 63, 100 & 200A Rewirable fuse units feature a bank of fuses or circuit breakers in a durable steel enclosure, along with highly conductive nickel or silver contacts. Switch fuse units are used in industrial and commercial buildings as well as domestic properties. Switch fuse units distribute current while shielding cables and devices from the damage that would be caused by power fluctuations along a particular electrical circuit. Domestic fuse boxes are frequently referred to as consumer units. The electricity supply to the entire propertyĪ number of residual current devices (RCD) which instantly disconnect electrical circuits to prevent shock or injuryįuses or circuit breakers for each individual electrical circuitįuse boxes have a number of alternative names, including control board panels, distribution boards, breaker panels, fuse boards, and fuse panels. Typically, they feature a central switch controlling: They are the location at which incoming power is divided into separate circuits. What is a Fuse Box?įuse boxes can essentially be explained as control panels for the electrical system in a particular location. Too much could cause damage to the device and even be hazardous. It is also sensible to check the amount of energy released by the fuse when blowing. If too much is lost, some low equipment may not function correctly. Voltage drop is the voltage lost through cables due to impedance - essentially when the voltage at the end of a run of cable is lower than at the beginning. The speed rating indicates how quickly the fuse will blow in response to excess current a more sensitive fuse is a safer option. This figure indicates the level of current the fuse will accept before blowing. It is important to ensure that you fit a fully compatible model with the correct current rating for your device. They are, by definition, a weak link - entirely by design.įuses are inexpensive and can be replaced (pulled) quickly and easily for minimum downtime. Once they have blown, they must be replaced. Most fuses, though, can only be used a single time. Circuit breakers are switches, and like all switches, they can be reset once they have been flipped. What is the Difference Between a Fuse and a Circuit Breaker?įuses and circuit breakers serve a very similar function - both break electrical circuits in the event of a current surge or short circuit.
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