Giving reason explain what type of materials are used in fuse wires.
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Solution and Explanation
Type of Materials Used in Fuse Wires (With Reason)
Fuse wire is a safety device used in electrical circuits to protect appliances from damage due to overloading or short-circuiting. The material used for making fuse wire must have specific properties so that it melts quickly when excessive current flows through the circuit.
Materials Used:
Fuse wires are generally made of an alloy of tin and lead. In some cases, alloys of copper, zinc, or aluminium may also be used depending on the required current rating.
Reason:
1. Low Melting Point:
The material of fuse wire must have a low melting point. When excessive current flows, the wire heats up and melts quickly, breaking the circuit and preventing damage.
2. High Resistivity:
Fuse wire materials have relatively high resistivity so that they heat up easily when current exceeds the safe limit.
3. Does Not Oxidize Easily:
The material should not oxidize quickly in air, as oxidation may affect its functioning.
4. Reliable and Economical:
Alloys like tin and lead are economical and provide consistent performance.
Working Principle:
When the current exceeds the rated value, heat produced (H = I²Rt) increases rapidly. Due to low melting point, the fuse wire melts and disconnects the circuit.
Conclusion:
Fuse wires are made of materials like tin-lead alloy because they have low melting point and relatively high resistivity, enabling them to melt quickly and protect the circuit from damage.
