Fuse is: Definition, Function, Type, Principle, Explanation

Fuse is: Definition, Function, Type, Principle and Explanation- On this occasion About Knowledge will discuss about Fuse. Which in this discussion explains the meaning of fuse, its function, type, principle, how to measure it along with an explanation.

For more details, please refer to the following explanation.

Fuse is: Definition, Function, Type, Principle and Explanation

In electronic systems, the presence of a fuse is very important, which is a safety device in case of damage or electrical overload.

Definition of Fuse

Fuse or commonly known as a fuse is a component that functions as a safety in electronic circuits or electrical devices.

This fuse basically consists of a fine, short wire that will melt and break when flowing by excessive electric current and also a short circuit in an electrical equipment (Electronics).

With the fuse breaking, the excessive electric current will not be able to enter the Electronic Circuit. So that it will not damage the components contained in a related electronic circuit.

Because the fuse serves to protect electrical equipment and also electronic equipment from damage due to short circuits or excessive electricity. This fuse is also often referred to as the Electrical Safety.

The fuse itself consists of 2 terminals, and is usually installed in series with the electronic or electrical circuit to be protected. So if the fuse is disconnected, an "open circuit" will occur which disconnects the flow of electricity so that the electric current cannot flow into the circuit protected it.

The following are Fuse Symbols and general Fuse mounting positions:

Fuse Symbol and Fuse Installation Method

The form of Fuse / Fuse that is most often found is in the form of a tube (cylinder) and also a knife (Blade Type). The fuse in the form of a tube / cylinder is often found in household electrical appliances. Meanwhile, if the fuse is in the form of a knife (blade) it is more often used in the automotive field (motor vehicles).

The value of the fuse is usually printed on the body of the fuse itself or engraved on the fuse terminal. The value of the Fuse / Fuses include:

• Electric Current in Ampere (A)
• milliAmperes (mA)
• Voltage in Volts (V)
• milliVolts (mV).

In Electronic or Electrical Circuits, this Fuse is often denoted by the letter "F".

Types of Fuse

Based on its function, the fuse can be divided into 2 (two) parts, namely:

1. Blade/wedge type fuse

The fuse blade is one of the most common and widely used types of fuses. Because this blade type fuse is designed with metal elements and is more compact and also a see-through protective housing. So that at the time of breaking it will be visible and also this fuse has a color to make it easier.

Apart from that, this type of fuse also has several advantages, including:

• Lighter
• More related sections
• Not easy to break and anti-shock (burning)
• More resistant to intermittent current

1. Fuse cartridge/glass

Fuse cartridges/glass are fuses identified based on the capacity of each type. The cartridge type can be seen on the metal end of the glass tube cover which displays the number indicating the fuse capacity.

Fuse Working Principle

Fuse is the most common means of protection. The fuse or fuse is installed in an electrical circuit. When the current flow exceeds the maximum load, the fuse will break or explode. The element inside the fuse or fuse melts, opening the circuit and also preventing other components from being damaged by excessive current.

The size of the metal element on the fuse differentiates its value. Keep in mind the excess current causes excess heat, and the heat is what causes the circuit to break not because of the current.

Fuse Damage Factors

The following are factors that cause the fuse to be damaged, including:

Overloaded

Overload is the current flowing in a circuit more than the maximum capacity of the fuse.

Short Circuit

Short Crircuit is a short circuit in the circuit so that the current flowing into the fuse exceeds the capacity of the fuse.

How to Measure Fuse with a Digital Multimeter

Basically Fuse has a transparent package made of Glass or Plastic. So you can see immediately whether the Fuse's fine wire is broken or not.

However, there are also types of fuses whose packaging covers the fine wire inside, making it difficult to see the contents of the fuse. Therefore, we need to measure the Fuse with a Multimeter. To be able to find out whether the fuse is still in good condition or has been disconnected.

The following is how to measure Fuse using a Digital Multimeter:

• Set the position on the Multimeter Switch in the Ohm (Ω) position
• Then Connect the Multimeter Probe to each Terminal Fuse or Fuse.
• The fuse has no polarity, so the position of the Red Probe and Black Probe will not matter.
• Make sure the value shown on the Multimeter Display is “0” Ohm. This condition indicates that the Fuse is in good condition (Short).
• If the Multimeter Display shows "Infinity", then the Fuse is declared damaged / broken or burned.

The broken fuse must immediately be replaced with a fuse with the same specifications. If the Fuse Specifications that are replaced are different, then the function of the Fuse as a security will not be able to function optimally. You could say the fuse will not be able to protect Electronic Circuits / Equipment and also electrical equipment to the maximum.

This is a brief explanation of Fuse is: Definition, Function, Type, Principle and Explanation. hopefully it can be useful and add knowledge to all of us. Thank you.