Cartridge Fuses
Cartridge fuses are low-cost electrical safety devices that are used for the overload protection of electrical circuits and appliances. They are cylindrical in shape and have a contact point at each end. Cartridge fuses are typically constructed from ceramic, glass, or porcelain.
RS Hong Kong stocks a comprehensive range of cartridge fuse devices from industry-leading brands including Eaton, Littelfuse, Mersen and of course RS PRO, enabling you to find the right fuse for overcurrent protection in any industrial, commercial, or household application.
How do Cartridge Fuses Work?
Cartridge fuses contain a piece of wire that melts when too much current flows through the circuit. When the wire melts, it breaks the circuit which prevents any damage. This is often referred to as burning out or blowing out. Put simply, when a fuse blows, the circuit is broken. Once a fuse has blown, it will need replacing to make the circuit complete again and allow the flow of current.
Different Types of Cylindrical Cartridge Fuses
Cylindrical cartridge fuses are used in a range of industrial, commercial, and domestic applications.
Selecting the correct fuse speed is essential for optimal protection of your device. Here are some of the most common markings you will find on a cartridge fuse.
- FF = Very Fast Acting (Flink Flink)
- F = Fast Acting (Flink)
- M = Medium Acting (Mitteltrage)
- T = Slow Acting (Trage)
- TT = Very Slow Acting (Trage Trage)
What is a High-Voltage Cartridge Fuse?
High-voltage cartridge fuses are specifically designed for electrical systems operating at voltages exceeding 1000 volts. They offer protection against overcurrents and short circuits in high-voltage applications like power distribution networks and industrial equipment.
Benefits of Using Cartridge Fuses
Cartridge fuses provide numerous benefits:
- Cost-Effective Protection: They are a relatively inexpensive way to safeguard valuable electrical equipment and ensure industrial electrical safety in industrial settings or work sites.
- Enhanced Safety: When a cartridge fuse "blows," it does so without producing flames, arcs, or hazardous gases, minimising risks for industrial workers and laypeople alike.
- Easy Installation and Replacement: Their simple design and cost-effectiveness facilitates straightforward installation and replacement should a fuse blow.
Applications for Cartridge Fuses
Cartridge fuses find applications across various domains:
- Low Amperage Fuses (0.5 Amps - 3 Amps): Protect delicate electronic devices and circuits, such as those found in consumer electronics.
- Mid Amperage Fuses (5 Amps - 15 Amps): Commonly used in household appliances like refrigerators, washing machines, and lighting circuits. A 15 amp cartridge fuse, for instance, might be suitable for a larger appliance like an air conditioner.
- High Amperage Fuses (20 Amps - 30 Amps): Typically found in industrial cartridge fuse applications, including machinery, motors, and power distribution systems.
How to Choose the Right Cartridge Fuse for Your Needs
When selecting the right cartridge fuse for your project, first consider the following:
- Current Rating: Choose a fuse with a slightly higher rating than the normal operating current of the circuit. This means that if there is a slight, harmless power increase, the fuse will not blow.
- Voltage Rating: Ensure the fuse's voltage rating matches or exceeds the circuit voltage.
- Fuse Speed: Select a fuse speed based on the application's requirements. Fast-acting fuses are ideal for sensitive electronics, while slow-blow fuses are better suited for motors that experience temporary inrush currents.
- Physical Size and Type: Match the fuse dimensions to the fuse holder. Common types include glass cartridge fuses, ceramic cartridge fuses, and porcelain cartridge fuses.
RS Hong Kong offers a wide array of cartridge fuses from reputable brands like Eaton, Littelfuse, Mersen, Schurter, Siemens, and SIBA, ensuring you find the perfect fit for your specific needs.
How to Order Cartridge Fuses from RS Hong Kong
Ordering cartridge fuses from RS Hong Kong is simple. Browse our online catalogue, select the desired products, and add them to your cart. We offer secure payment options and fast delivery throughout Hong Kong.
How Delivery Works at RS Hong Kong
RS Hong Kong is committed to providing efficient delivery services for our cartridge fuses and other electrical equipment, such as electric wires and electric cords. We offer a wide range of delivery options to cater to different business needs. For more details, please visit our Delivery Information page.