What are the similarities and differences between fuses and circuit breakers?

Answer by  bazillion (87)

Fuses and circuit breakers both protect electronic circuits against voltage overload. Fuses contain an element that is destroyed when the electric current exceeds a certain level. When that happens, the fuse must be replaced. Circuit breakers break the circuit mechanically when overloaded and must be mechanically reset (usually by flipping a switch) before normal operations resume.

Answer by  mangosteen (272)

The similarity is that they are designed to do the same thing - to protect electrical devices. The difference is that when a circuit breaker trips, it can be reset and used again. Fuses are disposable and have to be replaced after a surge of electricity trips them off.

Answer by  coj (79)

Both prevent circuits from getting overloaded with too much electricity, but circuit breakers can be reset many times. Fuses must be replaced any time they burn out.

Answer by  embockjr (709)

Current is "shut off" when it's value exceeds a certain value by both fuses and circuit breakers. The main difference it that circuit breakers may be reset, while a fuse operates by melting a conductor, thus must be replaced.

Answer by  bzzz (16)

They both cut off an electrical circuit when the current exceeds a certain rated amount (like 20 amps). Fuses only work once, but a circuit breaker can be reset.

Answer by  Anonymous

differences, fuses: melt when current over flows, have to be replaced. circuit breakers: interrupt the circuit once certain current is reached, can be used again. similarities: shut down circuit when to much current flows, protect electrical devices

Answer by  Anonymous

that guy in this picture is a wierdo….

Answer by  Anonymous

wow only 50 words or less… thats stupid….