Fuse selection.pdf

Overview: Fuse selection ? Fuse review ? Selecting a fuse – Fuse rating – I2t rating ? Example of in-rush current ? Demonstration of trip times How does a fuse work? A Fuse is a temperature sensitive device that serves as an intentional weak link in an electrical circuit. It interrupts overload and short-circuit conditions when its metallic element melts; thereby halting the overcurrent condition. CAP SOLDER FILAMENT BODY SOLDER CAP Cartridge fuseSMD fuse The metallic element (filament) melts and disconnects the power to the circuit. How does a fuse work? Circuit response without fuse protection – If a fuse device is not included, the overcurrent condition is eventually disrupted due to the failure of a component ? unpredictable mannerI ( A ) t Fused circuit - If a fuse device is properly selected and installed, the overcurrent is interrupted to avoid damage to circuit components ? predictable, controlled manner Selecting a fuse Important information: Maximum operating current – the maximum current that the fuse will experience during normal operation of the application Ambient temperature – the temperature in the area surrounding the fuse Normal operating voltage – the voltage level of the line that the fuse is protecting; this is also the voltage that the fuse will have to safely support after it has opened Current pulses – these are short duration pulses for which the fuse should not open ? In-rush and start-up currents are examples ? The shape, magnitude and quantity of the pulses is needed to ensure no nuisance tripping of the fuse Maximum fault current – this determines the Interrupt Rating (Breaking Capacity) that the fuse must meet Mounting requirements of fuse (surface mount, through hole) Selecting a fuse Step 1) Collect information to calculate minimum fuse rating ? Maximum operating current ? Normal operating voltage ? Ambient temperature Minimum fuse rating = Maximum operating current fuse re-rating factor x thermal de-rating factor Use t