cartridge fuse
Noun: A cartridge fuse is a type of electrical safety device designed to protect a circuit from excessive current. It consists of a fuse element (a metal wire or strip that melts when too much current flows) enclosed within a cylindrical, insulating tube or casing. This tube is typically made of a material like ceramic, glass, or plastic. When the fuse element melts ("blows"), it breaks the electrical circuit, preventing damage to wiring or equipment. The entire cylindrical unit is replaceable.
A cartridge fuse is used in electrical distribution boards, industrial equipment, and appliance plugs to provide overcurrent protection. It is characterized by its tubular, cartridge-like shape. - The technician replaced the blown cartridge fuse in the main power panel. - This machine requires a 10-amp cartridge fuse for safe operation. - Always ensure the power is off before checking a cartridge fuse.
- High-Rupturing Capacity (HRC) Cartridge Fuse: A specific type of cartridge fuse designed to safely interrupt very high fault currents without rupturing its casing. It is filled with silica sand to quench the arc.
- The motor starter is protected by an HRC cartridge fuse.
- Fuse (n): The general term for an overcurrent protection device.
- Fuse Element (n): The metal component inside a fuse that melts.
- Fuse Holder (n): The socket or clip designed to hold a cartridge fuse.
- Fuse Box (n): A panel containing multiple fuses for circuit protection.
- Electrical fuse
- Overcurrent protector (general term)
- To blow a fuse: (Idiom) For a fuse to melt and break the circuit; also used figuratively to mean to lose one's temper.
- The power surge caused the cartridge fuse to blow.
- To replace a fuse: The action of installing a new fuse after one has blown.
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a fuse cased in a tube
