7100.1009.13 Fuses: Application Field and Working Principle

Fuses are critical components within any electrical system. They provide the necessary protection from over-current, short-circuit and over-voltage conditions. Fuses have a wide range of applications, varying between high and low voltage, high and low current, consumer electronics, automotive, aerospace, power electronics, and more. Here, we explore the different application fields and the working principles behind fuses.

Application Fields

Fuses are used in a wide range of application fields. The most common applications are found in consumer electronics, automotive, aerospace, and power electronics. In consumer electronics, they are used mainly for electric shock protection and over-current protection. They are designed to protect the equipment from damage, or even destruction, such as in the case of an electrical overload. In automotive applications, fuses protect the vehicle\'s wiring from an excessive current draw, as well as the electrical system and components from over-voltage or short-circuit conditions. In aerospace applications, they are used mainly for failure indication and protection of electrically powered components. In power electronics, fuses are often used to protect inverters and other power converters from over-voltage and over-current conditions.

Working Principle

Fuses work by breaking the electrical circuit that it protects in the presence of an over-current or excessive voltage. That is, when the current drawn or voltage applied is greater than the rating of the fuse, it will open the circuit, interrupting the flow of electricity and preventing the over-current or excessive voltage from damaging the equipment. The working principle works by a metal element of the fuse melting due to the heat generated from a large current draw or excessive voltage. The element will then be separated, opening the circuit and preventing the flow of electricity. It is generally accepted that fuses should be rated 150% above the maximum current that it is designed to protect.

Conclusion

Fuses have a wide range of application fields, including consumer electronics, automotive, aerospace, and power electronics. They work by breaking the electrical circuit that it protects in the presence of an over-current or excessive voltage. Fuses can be rated 150% above the maximum current that it is designed to protect to ensure proper operation. As such, they are essential components within any electrical system.