From: CHRISTOPHER_ZAVATSON@udlp.com
Date: Mon, 6 Dec 1999 09:03:17 -0600
Message-ID: <0012DC63.C21254@udlp.com>
Subject: Fuses
To: Lancair.list@olsusa.com
Mime-Version: 1.0

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Another argument in favor of fuses over circuit breakers lies in their response
time.  While going through the fuse vs breaker debate a few years ago, I looked
at a spec sheet for Klixon circuit breakers.  Trip times were surprisingly long
unless the current was many times over the breaker rating.  For smaller
overloads in the 0-100% range, the trip times were measured in seconds, minutes
and even hours.  As a result, I have protected all of my electronic equipment
with fast acting fuses.  If one of my radios is drawing twice its normal load, I
want to shut it down as quickly as possible.  I use a red LED below each fuse to
indicate if it has blown, but haven't needed this feature other than for
maintenance tasks.  
Power equipment such as fuel pumps, landing gear, pitot heat etc. are all on
circuit breakers.
Remember, if you use fuses, the FARs require you carry a spare for each circuit
or 3 of each rating used.

Chris Zavatson
N91CZ


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