From manufacturing to renewable energies, motor control systems are vital for all industries, and they do so with motor technologies under threat from “faster and faster” advances within electricity itself over the last decade or so.
With motors pushing electrical hubs on much-maligned gas guzzlers and wind turbines on industrial lots, following a template with almost terrifying precision, the electrical fuses guarding them from electrical faults are part of this house.
Here we’re going to see some of the most salubrious approaches in fuse technologies for motor control systems, and sample their importance and application.
That said, while motors themselves are wondrously flexible, and only more so progressively as manufacturers make jumps in technology on the back of electricity, the structures controlling their whirring faces face stiff challenges in putting to bed and stirring to life those very nifty new electrical potentials. In gripping and releasing how and when motors fire, the framework controlling missiles into movement is luridly threatened by shorts, overloads and faults from infinity in other than trivial ways.Though faults themselves may mean equipment flagged and off to the dustbin—and clients either calling for work to be redone or suing us altogether—there’s even greater perils should work go ahead with client in control of wheels. This, as you’ve already guessed, is where the fuses come in—to cut and block currents overdrawn for reasons invisible, mysterious and utterly unknown.
What are some of the commonly used devices for fusing motor applications?
Here are some answers:1. Cartridge fuses
These form part of a cylinder, in which a suitable metal strip is attached which forms part of the circuit. When an overload occurs, or short develop, the metal strip is melted and circuit broken.
Cartridge fuses are available in high current ratings as well as other sizes, and are used for motor control in a large variety of applications. They are easily replaced and afford good protection to both motor and control panel.
- Blade fuses
Used mainly in automotive and industrial applications, blade fuses are a nice fuse for use within a motor control system. They are compact, and with metal blades that connect up to a holder. On an overcurrent event, the blade melts, cutting off power to the motor.Blade fuses have the virtues of reliability and fast action to fault, and can therefore be used in smaller systems or ones where space is at a premium.
Thermal fusesHigh Rupturing Capacity (HRC) Fuses
The HRC fuse is also used for motor control systems, especially where the motor circuit is larger, and carries larger fault current. This quality fuse is capable of providing protection from short circuit as well as overload by virtue of a better quality fuse element, and a fuse body specialized to withstand such extreme currents.
HRC fuses are sometimes also used in industrial power distribution, largely for their more dependable, reliable protection of larger motors or circuitry.
How to Choose the Right Fuse for Your Motor Control System
Choosing the correct fuse is a very important step to the proper protection of your motor control system. Consider the following in your selection:
Timing-current characteristics
The different time-current characteristics of the fuse have to be matched up with the requirements of the motor control operation. Some systems have inrush currents (starting for example) to be “caught” and not blow the fuse, in some other systems it is required that the fuse respond soon to prolonged overload. A basic understanding of the fuse time-current characteristics is a necessity to choose properly.
Environmental conditions
What kind of environment does your motor control system live in? High low temperatures, dampness, contact with chemicals, etc. may have influence with some of the fuse types. Choose the right one.
Conclusion
Sometimes, for motor control systems, the old saw is quite true. Pick the right fuse for the right job. Whether cartridge fuses, blade, thermal fuses, or HRC fuses, proper selection is very important for optimal protection of your motor control systems and powered equipment.
