What is the difference between circuit breaker and fuse

Circuit breakers and fuses are both used to protect electrical circuits from overcurrents and short circuits, but they work in different ways and have distinct advantages and disadvantages.

Fuses:

A fuse is a type of overcurrent protection device that melts or breaks when the current flowing through it exceeds a certain value, known as the rated current. Fuses are designed to interrupt the circuit when the current exceeds the rated value, which helps to prevent damage to the circuit and equipment.

Here are some key characteristics of fuses:

• Simple and inexpensive
• Fast response time (typically within 1-2 milliseconds)
• Can be replaced easily
• Limited to a specific current rating
• Can be prone to false tripping (i.e., tripping due to inrush currents or voltage surges)

Circuit Breakers:

A circuit breaker is an electromechanical device that can be reset after it has tripped. It uses a spring or other mechanism to trip the circuit when the current exceeds a certain value, and can be reset by simply flipping a switch or pressing a button.

Here are some key characteristics of circuit breakers:

• More complex and expensive than fuses
• Slower response time (typically within 10-30 milliseconds)
• Can be reset after tripping
• Can be set to trip at different current levels
• More reliable and less prone to false tripping than fuses

Key differences:

1. Resetability: Circuit breakers can be reset after tripping, while fuses must be replaced.
2. Response time: Circuit breakers typically have a slower response time than fuses.
3. Complexity: Circuit breakers are more complex and expensive than fuses.
4. False tripping: Circuit breakers are less prone to false tripping than fuses.
5. Customization: Circuit breakers can be set to trip at different current levels, while fuses are limited to a specific current rating.

When to use each:

1. Fuses: Use fuses in applications where a simple, inexpensive, and fast-acting overcurrent protection device is required, such as in residential wiring or in applications where the circuit is not critical.
2. Circuit breakers: Use circuit breakers in applications where a more complex and reliable overcurrent protection device is required, such as in industrial or commercial settings, or in applications where the circuit is critical and requires frequent resetting.

In summary, while both fuses and circuit breakers are used to protect electrical circuits from overcurrents and short circuits, they differ in their design, functionality, and application.