Which metal is used to make electric fuse?
Introduction:
Electric fuses are important safety devices used in electrical circuits to protect them from overcurrent or short circuits. They consist of a metal wire or strip that melts when excessive current flows through it, thereby interrupting the circuit and preventing damage to the connected devices. Various metals can be used to make electric fuses, but one of the most commonly used metals is tin.
Properties of Tin:
Tin possesses several properties that make it suitable for use in electric fuses:
1. Low melting point: Tin has a relatively low melting point of 231.9 degrees Celsius, which allows it to melt easily when exposed to excessive current. This property is crucial as it ensures that the fuse operates quickly to interrupt the circuit and protect the electrical system.
2. Good conductivity: Tin is a good conductor of electricity, enabling the flow of current through the fuse. It allows the fuse to carry normal operating currents without significant voltage drops or power losses.
3. Low resistance: Tin has low resistance, ensuring that the fuse material does not generate excessive heat during normal operation. This property prevents the fuse from prematurely melting and interrupting the circuit when the current is within the acceptable range.
4. Affordability: Tin is a relatively inexpensive metal, making it cost-effective for mass production of fuses.
Manufacturing Process:
The manufacturing of electric fuses involves the following steps:
1. Selection of tin: High-quality tin with suitable purity and properties is chosen for fuse production. The tin is often alloyed with small amounts of other metals to enhance its performance.
2. Wire or strip formation: The selected tin is shaped into wires or strips of precise dimensions using rolling or extrusion processes. These wires/strips should have a specific cross-sectional area to carry the desired current.
3. Assembling the fuse: The tin wire or strip is then carefully assembled into a fuse body, which is usually made of ceramic or glass. The wire/strip is typically coiled or wound to increase its current-carrying capacity.
4. Mounting: The assembled fuse is mounted into a suitable holder or base, which allows it to be easily connected to the electrical circuit.
Conclusion:
In summary, tin is an ideal metal for making electric fuses due to its low melting point, good conductivity, low resistance, and affordability. The manufacturing process involves selecting high-quality tin, forming it into wires or strips, assembling the fuse, and mounting it into a suitable holder. Tin fuses play a critical role in protecting electrical systems from overcurrent and short circuits, ensuring the safety and reliability of the connected devices.
Which metal is used to make electric fuse?
Well.... the material used for making electric fuse should have low melting point.......most of the time silver plated copper is used....!!