What is an electric fuse?

Answer: An electric fuse is a device used to prevent the harmful impact of increasing electric current. It is a current interrupting device that usually consists of a copper wire. Whenever a high current flows through this device due to excessive voltage or overload, the wire in the electric fuse breaks. As a result, the electric circuit breaks and the chances of a short circuit reduce significantly. 

How is an electric fuse made? 

An electric fuse is made up of a metal wire. The metal chosen has a high melting point to bear high temperatures. This metal wire is then fixed between two points. The base of the electric fuse is insulated to prevent electric shock. 

It can be divided into two types: 

1. High Rupturing Capacity cartridge type electric fuses. 
2. Semi-enclosed fuses. 

Benefits of using electric fuse: 

1. Electric fuse ensures that the problem of overheating is controlled and therefore prevents fire and other accidents. 
2. The electric circuit does not contact the body due to the electric fuse. Therefore chances of electric shock reduce. 
3. In case of overloads, it prevents short circuits and blackout. 
4. The electric fuse ensures automatic wire melting and interruption in the circuit. Due to this, the electrical appliances don’t face the brunt of high voltage and are prevented from damage. 
5. The chances of failure of electric circuits are reduced significantly. 
6. It prevents overheating of the electric circuit. 
7. In case of excessive current, the electric fuse melts down and breaks the current flow. 

Thus it can play a significant role in preventing accidents due to high voltage in electric appliances.