ZOTUP IN PILLS | WHY IS IT ADVISABLE TO AVOID USING AN EXTERNAL FUSE?

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Using external fuses in electrical installations, although aimed at providing additional protection for equipment and systems against overcurrents typical of short circuits, is not always the best choice. Installing fuses upstream of a surge protection device (SPD) can lead to significant issues that make their use inadvisable.

Main Issues with Using External Fuses

1. Limited Space and Increased Cable Lengths: An external fuse represents additional bulk within the electrical panel. This setup not only requires more space but also leads to longer cable lengths. Consequently, the protection levels offered by the surge protection device may deteriorate, compromising the overall effectiveness of the protection system.

2. Potential Premature Activation of the Fuse: If the fuse is not properly sized, it may trip before the surge protection device (SPD) has a chance to operate. In the event of lightning striking the device, the fuse could open the circuit before the SPD intervenes, leading to two potentially severe consequences:

   • The fuse gets damaged, and the SPD is disconnected from the system.
   • In the case of a multi-stroke lightning event, the second stroke would hit the installation or equipment directly, as the path protected by the SPD has been interrupted.

How to Effectively Protect Systems and Equipment Without Risks?

The ideal solution to avoid these risks is to use surge protection devices with Integrated Fuse Function (ff), such as those offered by ZOTUP. Thanks to this innovation, there is no need to install additional external fuses, reducing both the bulk and the risks associated with premature fuse activation. SPDs with Integrated Fuse Function ensure that, in the event of an overvoltage, the SPD "dies" in an open circuit rather than a short circuit, preventing the risk of limiter explosion.

For more details on how to protect your electrical system with the Integrated Fuse Function, read Episode 5: Why Choose a Surge Protection Device with Integrated Fuse Function?

Conclusion

Installing an external fuse may seem like an additional safety measure, but it comes with significant disadvantages and risks. Opting for advanced solutions like ZOTUP surge protection devices with Integrated Fuse Function is the most effective way to ensure the safety and protection of systems and equipment, minimizing maintenance interventions and optimizing space within electrical panels.