Fuse vs Circuit Breaker-difference between Fuse and Circuit Breaker

This page compares Fuse vs Circuit Breaker and mentions difference between Fuse and Circuit Breaker.

Introduction:
Both the fuses and circuit breakers are used to provide overcurrent protection to the circuit where they are employed. The difference between them lies based on different ways of their functionalities.

Fuse

Fuse

• The fuses are designed to melt under unsafe currents i.e. when current exceeds certain threshould limit. This causes circuit to break physically between power source and load.
• They are used for lower loads.
• Advantages: They offer lower cost, greater flexibility and fast operation.
• Disadvantages: They are required to be replaced once burnt out.

Circuit Breaker

Circuit Breaker

• The circuit breakers are designed with internal switches which pop down to "OFF" position under unsafe conditions i.e. when current exceeds certain value. This causes circuit to break physically.
• They are used for larger loads.
• Advantages: They do not require replacement every time when they are tripped due to over load.
• Disadvantages: Complex cellular sites require more number of circuit breakers having different capacities. This requires modular distribution encompassing wide range of breakers with different sizes.

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