ABSTRACT
Most fuses function in identical ways; however, their construction can dictate their response to particular situations, such as short circuits and long-term overcurrent. Most fuse packaging comes in two forms: one-shot and renewable. One-shot fuses are just as the name suggests-a single-use device. No provision is made to open the housing of a one-shot fuse, and the entire cartridge is intended to be replaced after the fuse has blown. In contrast, a renewable fuse is designed to be opened, and the element within the fuse can be replaced. Four common types of fuses are in use today: non-time-delay, time-delay, dual-element, and self-resetting. Care must be taken when sizing a fuse for a circuit. If the voltage across the circuit is sufficient to exceed the dielectric insulation provided by the fuse, an arc flash may occur when the fuse’s element burns through.
