How Does a Fuse Work?
Fuses are a tiny but essential component to our electrical systems and appliances, as they prevent our circuits and wires from overheating or an overflow of current which can lead to dangerous electrical fires. With such a small part of your electrical system providing protection to your circuit, you might be wondering, “How does a fuse work?” From the quality materials that make a fuse to how a fuse prevents your circuit from overheating, the Gateway Cable Company is here to provide everything you need to know!
Fuses work as a protector to your electrical circuit by conducting high levels of energy and heat so as not to overflow your systems with power. If there is excessive electrical current flowing through, this will cause your fuse to melt and open up your circuit and disconnect your power supply. While you may have experienced a fuse going out that resulted in the loss of electricity, the melting of the fuse ensures that other electrical wires and cables won’t be affected by the additional current or heat, which can lead to dangerous electrical fires.
How Does a PTC Fuse Work?
If you don’t want to worry about replacing your fuse in the event of a circuit break, you can opt for a PTC fuse, or resettable overcurrent circuit protection device, which offers different capabilities than your average fuse. So, how does a PTC fuse work? These fuses are made of polymeric materials, and as electrical currents flow, your PTC will be able to raise or lower its resistance rate in order to effectively conduct the power going to your circuits. This fuse lowers and rises in temperature so it can reset or readjust the current flow without leading to a complete circuit break.
What is a Fuse Made of?
As mentioned before, fuses are tiny but are essential to protecting your circuit from overheating. The fuse itself is a thin metallic strand of wire with noncombustible materials that are connected between the terminal ends of the circuit. Since they are there to prevent the circuit from any damage, fuses are made of highly conductive materials that can handle higher levels of energy or heat such as copper, aluminum, and zinc.
Learn More from the Experts at Gateway Cable Company
Whether you need an expert to explain how a fuse works, or want quality guidance on your next electrical project, you can always count on the professionals at Gateway Cable Company. Learn more about other electrical components and shop for materials for your next project with our inventory of connectors, adaptors, and cables for sale. If there’s a certain part you need that’s not available, you can request a quote online and have it delivered to your home. Contact us today to speak with an electrical expert!