Last Updated on April 3, 2023 by Kevin Chen
Image source Owlcation
A fuse is an important electrical component. It is found in almost every electric circuit and its role is to provide protection against excessive current. In case the current in a circuit exceeds a certain limit, the fuse will blow up hence protecting the device and other electronic components from any damage.
Given the important role that it plays, you always need to ensure that the fuse is in a perfect condition. Even when everything seems to be okay, it will be prudent to test.
While most testing procedures encompass the use of a multimeter, it is possible to test a fuse without a multimeter. Keep reading as we guide you on how to do it.
How does a fuse work?
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Before you even think of testing it, you should know how it works.
A fuse works by interrupting the normal flow of electric current. It opens the circuit meaning that the current will not be able to flow to the target load or even other electronic components in the circuit.
But, how does it achieve this goal?
A fuse comprises of a thin wire that is enclosed in a protective casing. The two ends of the wires are also conductors that are connected to the rest of the electric current.
Under normal circumstances, current will flow from the power source, through the fuse and then to the rest of the circuit.
What if the current exceeds the power rating of the fuse?
Well, the wire will get hot and break hence subsequently interrupting the flow of electric current.
In the absence of a fuse, the large current will proceed to the load and the rest of the circuit causing some serious damage.
Fuses are common features in almost all the electric applications. You will find them in home appliances, domestic wiring systems, automotive wiring, consumer electronics among many others.
Methods of testing a fuse without multimeter
At this point, let’s discuss the methods that you can use to test a fuse without using multimeter.
Method 1: Visual inspection
This is the easiest technique that you can deploy when it comes to testing a fuse without a multimeter. You simply need to locate the fuse and be on the lookout for some physical signs of damage.
Fuse locations tend to vary from one device to another. Check out your manual to know its exact location.
Once you find it, you can proceed to remove it from its designated socket. In most applications, you simply need to pull it out without any struggle.
Be on the lookout for any signs of damage. This can be cracks, discoloration, burns, corrosion among others.
Does the metal strip running through the fuse look good? Then it means that the fuse is in a perfect condition. A broke strip is a sign of a bad fuse.
Once you spot any signs of visible damage then you should consider replacing the fuse.
Still not satisfied with the visual inspection? You can proceed to other methods.
Method 2: Doing a volt test on the fuse
Another way of avoiding multimeter when testing a fuse is by conducting a voltage test.
But wont I need a multimeter when doing a volt?
While a multimeter is the primary tool for doing volt test, there is an alternative; voltmeter. After all, our goal is to avoid the multimeter, right?
How do I use a voltmeter to do this test?
To do so, set the voltmeter to the required range of the circuit. The setting on the voltmeter should be slightly higher than that of the circuit.
Once you are able to fully access the fuse, connect one probe to the end of the fuse and the pother probe to another end of the voltmeter.
If your circuit is rated 12 volts, then the readings on the voltmeter should also be 12 volts.
Method 3: Use continuity tester
Here is another tool that you can use instead of a multimeter to test the functionality of a fuse; continuity tester.
A continuity tester is basically an equipment that is used to test the electrical continuity property of an electric component. You will use the tester to establish the presence of electrical path in an electrical component.
Continuity testers have buzzers and electric lights which will buzz or turn on to indicate the circuit is continuous.
The testers operate in the same way as multimeters only that this time you are using a different equipment instead of a multimeter.
So, how do I use continuity tester on a fuse?
Connect the probes of the testers to the corresponding metal contacts of the fuse.
Does the tester produce and beeping or buzzing sound? This is a sign that the fuse is in a good working condition.
If the tester does not produce any sound nor the bulb turn on means that the fuse is not continuous. Probably the filament is already broken. This calls for the replacement of the fuse.
Method 4: Light bulb test
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Here is another simple method of testing a fuse without using a multimeter. Create a simple electric circuit comprising of a power source (battery) bulb and of course the fuse.
Ensure that the fuse that you want o test is part of the circuit. Ince all the components are ready, try to turn on the circuit.
Does the bulb light? This is a sign that the fuse is in a perfect condition as it allows electric current to flow through it.
However, if the bulb does not light, yet it is in good condition, it means that the fuse is broken hence cannot be used again.
However, before you conclude that the problem is with the fuse, ensure that all other key components of the circuit such as the power source and the wires are working correctly.
Method 5: Carry out the current test
Since the ultimate goal is to avoid using a multimeter, we will always be free to use another tool. This time round our tool of trade is an ammeter.
To do this, remove the fuse from its position then connect it along the probes of the ammeter.
What readings do you see on the ammeter?
If the ammeter records 0 amps, this shows that the fuse is in a perfect condition and will offer maximum protection when used in the circuit.
An infinity reading on the ammeter is a sign of a bad fuse.
Method 6: Replacement test
Do you suspect that there is something wring with your fuse? You can opt for a fuse replacement test method.
This one is pretty simple; simply replace the current fuse with another one. The replacement should probably a new one as you are sure that it is in a perfect working condition.
Turn on the circuit once you the replacement is in its perfect place.
If the circuit works perfectly after the replacement means that the previous fuse could be having some flaws. However, if the circuit still backfires even with the new fuse means that the problem could be with your electric circuit.
Method 7: Battery test
This method of testing a fuse is slightly similar to the one we have discussed about using a light bulb. The only difference is here we don’t have a load or the bulb-just a power source and the wires.
Connect the fuse to your circuit that comprises of a battery and the wires. Once the circuit is complete, try to temporarily touch the needs of the wires against each other. If they produce sparks, it means that the fuse is in a proper working condition. If you see no sparks means that the fuse is already broken.
Take note that this method requires maximum precaution as poor handling of the wires can lead to fire. You should also use low-voltage power source to carry out this test.
What are the symptoms of a blows fuse
How can I tell that my fuse is blown and needs to tested?
Regardless of the application areas the signs of blown fuses seem to be the same across the board.
One of the most common signs is the target device or appliance won’t work.
Is the fuse connected to a lighting device? The light or the lamp won’t work. Is the fuse used on audio device? You won’t hear any sound coming from the device.
After all, a blown fuse breaks the circuit hence the target load will not be connected to the power source.
Buying new fuses
After testing your fuse and determining that it is blown or just broken, what next?
You will have to replace the faulty fuse with a new one.
Ensure that the replacement meets the current rating of your circuit for it to perform its functions well.
The new fuse should also be of high quality and from reputable brands.
To be sure of your new fuse, just buy from reputable electronic components suppliers in China. This will also apply even when buying electric fuses in bulk
If you want to find more Electronic Components Distributors, please check out the following articles:
Electronic Components Distributors In the USA
Electronic Components Distributors In UK
Electronic Components Distributors In China
Electronic Components Distributors In India
Electronic Components Distributors In Singapore
Electronic Components Distributors In Malaysia
Electronic Components Distributors In Vietnam
Electronic Components Distributors In South Korea
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