Have you seen this in-plug fuse arrangement before?

Thread starter berkeman
Start date Jun 18, 2017
Tags

Fuse

In summary, the conversation discusses the use of a fuse in the AC mains power plug of a small floor fan. Some speculate that the fuse is to save on copper in the lead wires, while others believe it is to prevent fire in case of a stuck rotor. It is also mentioned that some other appliances, such as electric fence chargers, have similar fused plugs for different reasons. The conversation also delves into the risks that the fuse protects against and the advantages of using a 240V domestic system with a ring main. The overall consensus is that the fused plug serves as a cheap insurance for the appliance and its wiring.

Oct 14, 2021

sophiecentaur

Science Advisor

Gold Member

darth boozer said:

When used as intended, the internal fuse protects against excessive current through the individual plug, whatever the cause. This current can be well within the capacity of the ring main.

The great shame is that replacement 13A plugs seem to arrive with 13A fuses in them. If they were supplied with 2 or 3A fuses then the majority of equipment would work fine. It would be put to the purchaser to have a supply of higher current fuses for beefier equipment. There are arguments against this, based on convenience but it would have been a good idea to start that way.

But nowadays, most appliances are supplied with moulded plugs on their leads and people mostly don't get involved with wiring plugs at all. The original fuse on a plug that's moulded on an appliance will be the right one. It may not be green practice but a faulty appliance is indication to buy a new one, these days.

<h2>1. What is an in-plug fuse arrangement?</h2><p>An in-plug fuse arrangement is a type of electrical safety device that is built into a plug, typically used for small appliances. It is designed to protect the appliance and the user from electrical hazards by breaking the circuit if too much current flows through it.</p><h2>2. How does an in-plug fuse arrangement work?</h2><p>An in-plug fuse arrangement works by using a thin strip of metal, typically made of copper or silver, that is designed to melt and break the circuit if too much current flows through it. This prevents the appliance from overheating and potentially causing a fire or other electrical hazards.</p><h2>3. What are the benefits of using an in-plug fuse arrangement?</h2><p>The main benefit of using an in-plug fuse arrangement is that it provides an extra layer of safety for the user and the appliance. It can prevent electrical hazards such as fires or electrocution by breaking the circuit if too much current flows through it. It also allows for easy replacement of the fuse if it blows, rather than having to replace the entire appliance.</p><h2>4. Are in-plug fuse arrangements common?</h2><p>Yes, in-plug fuse arrangements are quite common, especially in small appliances such as toasters, hair dryers, and coffee makers. They are also commonly used in power cords for larger appliances such as refrigerators and washing machines.</p><h2>5. How do I know if my appliance has an in-plug fuse arrangement?</h2><p>You can usually tell if your appliance has an in-plug fuse arrangement by looking at the plug itself. If it has a small window or cover on it, it likely contains a fuse. You can also consult the appliance's manual or contact the manufacturer to confirm if it has an in-plug fuse arrangement.</p>

FAQ: Have you seen this in-plug fuse arrangement before?

1. What is an in-plug fuse arrangement?

An in-plug fuse arrangement is a type of electrical safety device that is built into a plug, typically used for small appliances. It is designed to protect the appliance and the user from electrical hazards by breaking the circuit if too much current flows through it.

2. How does an in-plug fuse arrangement work?

An in-plug fuse arrangement works by using a thin strip of metal, typically made of copper or silver, that is designed to melt and break the circuit if too much current flows through it. This prevents the appliance from overheating and potentially causing a fire or other electrical hazards.

3. What are the benefits of using an in-plug fuse arrangement?

The main benefit of using an in-plug fuse arrangement is that it provides an extra layer of safety for the user and the appliance. It can prevent electrical hazards such as fires or electrocution by breaking the circuit if too much current flows through it. It also allows for easy replacement of the fuse if it blows, rather than having to replace the entire appliance.

4. Are in-plug fuse arrangements common?

Yes, in-plug fuse arrangements are quite common, especially in small appliances such as toasters, hair dryers, and coffee makers. They are also commonly used in power cords for larger appliances such as refrigerators and washing machines.

5. How do I know if my appliance has an in-plug fuse arrangement?

You can usually tell if your appliance has an in-plug fuse arrangement by looking at the plug itself. If it has a small window or cover on it, it likely contains a fuse. You can also consult the appliance's manual or contact the manufacturer to confirm if it has an in-plug fuse arrangement.