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Plug Fuses
Plug-type fuses have a threaded
base that looks like the base of a
light bulb. Standard plug fuses are
interchangeable, so it is very
important that you match the
specifications of the existing fuse to
the replacement fuse. Inserting a
fuse with a higher rating than the
slot is designed to handle will
permit much higher and consequently more dangerous, current levels.
Tamper-Proof Fuses
Tamper-proof fuses provide
protection against operating your system
outside safe parameters by incorporating
special adapters into your fuse box. These
adaptors simply screw into fuse openings
and only accommodate one size, making it
impossible to insert a device that is not
rated appropriately.
Some plug fuses have a glass top
that allows you to see which wires
are still intact
Standard threaded bases on plug fuses are often referred to as
Edison bases
Standard plug fuses should be used for replacement only
Tamper-proof fuses are also called Type-S fuses
Tamper-proof fuses are the only type recommended by the NEC
Cartridge fuses
These fuses have a cylindrical body, typically
comprised of ceramic materials and ferrule contacts,
or metal end caps. These metal caps connect with a
wire inside the body of the cartridge and, when
snapped into place on your electrical panel, it
completes the connection, enabling the electrical
circuit to flow freely
Time-Delay Fuses
Time-delay fuses provide overload and short circuit protection.
Time-delay fuses used in motor applications usually allow several
times the rated current for a short time to allow motors to start
without blowing the fuse. Fuses with a built-in time
delay are designed to handle these types of
situations without breaking. Fuses that
incorporate a dual element allow for even longer
time delays by absorbing extraneous heat and
taking pressure off the main wire.
Automotive Fuses
Automotive fuses help regulate the electrical system in your car, truck,
van or other vehicle. They are often referred to as blade fuses. These fuses
feature a transparent plastic covering that allows you to view the internal wire so
you can easily determine if a fuse has been blown.
CIRCUIT BREAKER
Pros:
Cons:
1. Actuator lever - used to manually trip and reset the circuit breaker. Also
indicates the status of the circuit breaker (On or Off/tripped). Most breakers
are designed so they can still trip even if the lever is held or locked in the
"on" position. This is sometimes referred to as "free trip" or "positive trip"
operation.
2. Actuator mechanism - forces the
together or apart.
3. Contacts - Allow current when
and break the current when
apart.
contacts
touching
moved
4. Terminal
5.
rapidly
Circuit breakers are rated according to the maximum voltage they can
handle. The voltage rating is a function of the circuit breakers ability
to suppress the internal arc that occurs when the circuit breakers
contacts open.
The voltage rating of the circuit breaker must be at least equal to the
circuit voltage. The voltage rating of a circuit breaker can be higher
than the circuit voltage, but never lower.