What is the use of a Fuse in electrical systems?

A fuse is an essential safety device in electrical systems, designed specifically to stop excessive current flow. It operates on a simple principle where it contains a metal wire or strip that melts when the current exceeds a predetermined threshold. This melting effectively breaks the circuit, thereby preventing potential damage to electrical components, reducing the risk of fire, and ensuring safety within the system.

In this context, while detecting electrical faults—such as overloads or short circuits—can be a function of various devices, the primary role of a fuse is not to detect but to respond by interrupting current flow. Converting alternating current to direct current and connecting different electrical appliances are functions that pertain to different types of equipment, such as rectifiers and connectors, respectively. Thus, the functionality of a fuse is specifically linked to its role in protecting the system by stopping excessive current flow.