01 Working Principle of Drop-Out Fuses
The core working principle of drop-out fuses is to utilize overcurrent to heat up and melt the fuse element, thereby breaking the circuit and protecting electrical equipment from damage.
When an overload or short circuit occurs in the circuit, the fault current causes the fuse to heat up rapidly. Once it reaches the melting point, it melts and the fuse tube drops automatically, creating a clear break point, which is convenient for maintenance personnel to identify the location of the fault.
This design not only provides reliable protection functions, but also makes the location of faults immediately obvious, significantly reducing the time for troubleshooting and maintenance, and enhancing the reliability of the power system.
02 Main Technical Features
Modern drop-out fuses possess numerous outstanding characteristics. They utilize high-conductivity fuse materials, respond rapidly, and can quickly melt in the event of a short circuit or overload.
The drop-out fuse features precise breaking characteristics, complies with IEC standards, and ensures reliable operation. Its structural design enables the fuse tube to automatically drop after breaking, creating a clear disconnection point for easy identification of the fault location.
The enclosure is made of high-strength insulating material with strong weather resistance, suitable for harsh outdoor environments. It is easy to install, and its compact size design is applicable to various power distribution scenarios. The accompanying installation bracket simplifies the construction process and reduces maintenance costs.
03 Innovative Technology Application
In recent years, the technology of drop-out fuses has been continuously innovated. The mechanical interlock drop-out fuse patented by Haosheng Electric Power ensures that the fuse tube rotates and drops without falling to the ground and breaking.
The patent for the drop-out fuse obtained by Hebao Electric features an innovative pull-ring mechanism, which effectively reduces the difficulty for operators when using an insulated rod to pull the fuse tube, enhancing the convenience and safety of the operation.
The “intelligent drop-out fuse” launched by Zhejiang integrates overload, short circuit, high-temperature alarm functions and wireless data transmission capabilities, achieving digitalization of operational status and providing real-time equipment operation information for the smart grid.
04 Typical Application Scenarios
Drop-out fuses play a significant role in rural power grids, being used in 12kV distribution lines to protect equipment such as transformers and line branches.
In urban distribution networks, they are suitable for outdoor ring main units, branch boxes and other scenarios, enhancing power supply reliability. In the industrial power consumption field, they provide overload and short-circuit protection for factories, mines and other places.
When used in conjunction with a lightning arrester, a drop-out fuse can form a layered defense system: during a lightning strike, the lightning arrester clamps the overvoltage; if the fault current persists after the lightning arrester fails, the fuse will isolate the damaged part to prevent cascading faults.
05 Selection and Maintenance Tips
When choosing a drop-out fuse, first select the appropriate rated voltage and current based on actual needs.
Attention should be paid to product certification to ensure that the products comply with national standards and industry norms, such as IEC 60282-1 standard 10. Select suppliers with good after-sales service guarantees to ensure worry-free long-term use 1.
In terms of maintenance, the drop-out design facilitates fault location and reduces power outage time. Regularly inspect the status of the fuse, especially after severe weather, to ensure its normal operation. For intelligent drop-out fuses, it is also necessary to pay attention to whether their data transmission function is normal.