An 11kV drop-out fuse (commonly called D-fuse) is a protective device used on medium-voltage distribution lines to protect transformers and feeders from overcurrent and short circuits.
Description
An 11kV drop-out fuse consists of:
* Fuse base (cut-out body) – mounted on the pole or cross arm
* Fuse carrier (fuse tube) – holds the fuse element
* Fuse element (link wire) – melts during fault conditions
* Arc-extinguishing tube – quenches the arc when the fuse blows
* Terminals – for line and load connections
How It Works
* Under normal operation, current flows through the fuse element.
* When there is overload or short circuit, the fuse element melts.
* This causes the fuse carrier to drop open, breaking the circuit.
* The open position gives a clear visual indication of a fault.