Fuses are devices made of a conductive material, called a fusion link, surrounded by an insulating material body, connected to two contacts that facilitate their connection with the components of the installations. The primary function of fuses is to protect electrical installations against the effects of short circuit currents or overloads.
Their electrical contacts are usually made of brass or silver copper to prevent oxidation and poor contact that generate heat that is detrimental to proper system operation. Its body consists of insulating material and good mechanical resistance, which does not absorb moisture, usually ceramic, porcelain or steatite (material with insulating characteristics superior to porcelain).
The fusing link or fusible link is a low-melting electrical conductive material (lead, German silver, pure copper or zinc copper) made of wire or blade. It is the main part of the fuse, because it is through its fuse that the protection of the circuits, opening, in case of short circuit or overload occurs.
