Fuse ratings

jviss

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Feb 5, 2004
7,089
Tartan 3800 20 Westport, MA
In the case of "oops"--a short circuit or other abnormal situation--the fuse might see the total voltage difference provided to the circuit. If this occurs, then the fuse will do its job and melt in a hurry.
That's really not technically correct. If the load is shorted the fuse will momentarily see the voltage according to a voltage divider, including the internal resistance of the source and remaining resistance of the wiring and short. It's the current, of course, that will blow the fuse.
 
Jan 4, 2010
1,037
Farr 30 San Francisco
Fuse melts based on power generated; in this case P=I (V) so the power to blow the fuse is 240W
V=IR; 24=10 so (R) R=2.4 Ohms and is the fuse's resistance which is fixed

Now at 12V: 240W= 12(I) so I=20A

So this fuse would not be safe to use if I need 10A wire protection

Am I wrong?
You are wrong. The fuse blows when there is 10+ amps through it. The fuse resistance is low maybe a drop of only 0.1V or so under normal operation and by the time it blows maybe a drop of 1V. So 12V circuit or 24V circuit doesn't matter the voltage drop across the fuse at rated load is tiny. Fuses have Voltage and breaking current ratings, so at high enough voltages and currents the fuse won't work.
 
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