What Makes Fuse Wire So Special?

What are the metals used to make fuse wire and why?

Answer:

The fuse wire is made up of Sn (tin) and Pb (lead) alloy because of its high resistance and low melting point.

The tin and lead alloy is a eutectic composition (low melting point composition) consisting of 62% tin plus 38% lead.

When it comes to electrical safety, fuse wire plays a vital role in protecting circuits. The metals used to make fuse wire are tin and lead alloy, known for their specific properties that make them ideal for this purpose.

Tin and lead alloy are chosen due to their high resistance, which allows the fuse wire to effectively limit the flow of excessive current in the circuit. This helps prevent damage to other components in the circuit by acting as a sacrificial element that will melt before any other parts are harmed.

Additionally, the low melting point of the tin and lead alloy is another key factor in its selection. When the current passing through the circuit exceeds the rated value, the fuse wire will heat up rapidly. Once the temperature reaches the melting point of 183°C, the fuse wire will melt and break the circuit, thus preventing further damage or fire hazards.

In conclusion, the combination of high resistance and low melting point in the tin and lead alloy used for fuse wires makes them essential components in electrical systems, ensuring safety and protection against electrical faults.