Advantages and disadvantages of HRC fuse
HRC fuses are the fastest & simplest current-limiting devices. With a wide current range, multiple voltage ratings, and high short circuit strength, HRC fuses are perfectly equipped for overcurrent protection in buildings & industries. Except for the advantages, HRC fuses have many drawbacks. Let’s check them one by one.
Advantages of HRC fuse
Some benefits of HRC fuse are:
- It has a high-speed operation.
- It has low let-through energy, low cut-off characteristics, and reduced electromagnetic stress.
- It saves energy through low power losses.
- It has a high breaking capacity.
- There is no emission of gases after a short circuit occurs.
- It has a long lifespan.
- It is a cheap solution. Its initial cost is low compared to a breaker.
- It has a high resistance to aging. It has extreme reliability.
- It has compact dimensions.
- Some models have status indicators on the fuse.
- It is not affected by environmental conditions. It operates safely in high and low temperatures.
- It can be produced up to 1250 Amps.
- It has various types. It can be used in different applications.
Disadvantages of HRC fuse
Some drawbacks of HRC fuse are:
- It has to be replaced after each opening. It cannot be reused once the fuse wire melts in the operation.
- It has an open-type body and this could cause safety problems.
- It has high maintenance and replacement costs.
- Fuses with incorrect ratings can easily be installed in the fuse holders.
- In a three-phase motor circuit, if one fuse blows, the motor works in 2 phases.
- Unlike general industrial fuses, high-speed fuses do not have intentional time-delay features.
- It is old technology.
- It is not possible to add electrical or mechanical accessories to it.
- The heat produced by the arc may affect the associated switches.
- Generally, it must be used with a fuse base. This increases the cost of the total solution.
