| HS Code | Official Doc | Tariff Rate | Origin | Destination | Effective Date |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 8535100020 | Doc | 57.7% | CN | US | 2025-05-12 |
| 8535100040 | Doc | 57.7% | CN | US | 2025-05-12 |
| 3926904510 | Doc | 58.5% | CN | US | 2025-05-12 |
| 3926909987 | Doc | 42.8% | CN | US | 2025-05-12 |
Fuse
A fuse is a safety device used in electrical and electronic circuits to protect against overcurrents. It contains a metal wire or strip that melts when too much current flows through it, thereby breaking the circuit.
Material
Fuse elements are typically made of alloys with low melting points, ensuring rapid and predictable operation. Common materials include:
- Zinc: Frequently used in power fuses due to its high melting speed and ability to create a visible gap when blown.
- Copper: Used in some applications, offering good conductivity but requiring more precise calibration.
- Silver: Employed in sensitive electronic circuits due to its high purity and reliability.
- Alloy of Tin and Lead: Used in some older designs, but increasingly replaced due to environmental concerns regarding lead.
- Sand/Silica: Used in high-voltage fuses, providing arc-quenching properties.
The fuse element is often encased in a non-conducting housing, typically glass, ceramic, or plastic.
Purpose
The primary purpose of a fuse is to interrupt the flow of electrical current when it exceeds a safe level. This protects the circuit and connected components from damage caused by overheating, fire, or malfunction.
Function
A fuse operates based on the principle of Joule heating (I²R loss). When current flows through the fuse element, it generates heat. If the current exceeds the fuse's rated value, the heat generated exceeds the element's ability to dissipate it, causing it to melt and break the circuit. The melting process creates a gap in the circuit, stopping the current flow.
Usage Scenarios
Fuses are widely used in:
- Power Distribution Systems: Protecting electrical panels, transformers, and individual circuits in homes, buildings, and industrial facilities.
- Automotive Electrical Systems: Safeguarding circuits related to lighting, accessories, and critical components.
- Electronic Devices: Protecting sensitive components in appliances, computers, and other electronics.
- Industrial Equipment: Protecting motors, control systems, and other machinery.
Common Types
- Cartridge Fuses: Cylindrical fuses with metal end caps, commonly used in power distribution and automotive applications. Available in various sizes and current ratings.
- Plug Fuses: Screw-in fuses used in older electrical panels. Often feature a visible indicator when blown.
- Blade Fuses (Automotive Fuses): Small, flat fuses commonly used in automotive applications. Available in a variety of colors to indicate current rating.
- Surface Mount Fuses (SMD Fuses): Tiny fuses designed for use in printed circuit boards (PCBs) in electronic devices.
- High-Voltage Fuses: Designed for use in high-voltage power systems, often employing sand or oil for arc quenching.
- Time-Delay Fuses (Slow-Blow Fuses): Designed to tolerate brief current surges without blowing, protecting circuits from nuisance tripping.
- Fast-Acting Fuses: Designed to blow quickly, protecting sensitive electronic components.
Based on the provided information, “fuse” can be understood as an electrical safety device designed to protect circuits from overcurrent. It functions by containing metal wire or strip that melts and breaks the circuit if the current exceeds a predetermined level. Its applications span various electrical systems and appliances.
The following HS codes are relevant:
- 8516.10.00 - Electrical fuses, with a rated voltage of either ≤ 750 V and of a current rating of 1 A or less. This classification specifically covers fuses designed for low-voltage circuits with limited current capacity. For example, small fuses used in electronic devices.
- 8516.20.00 - Electrical fuses, with a rated voltage exceeding 750 V and of a rated current of 1 A or less. This category includes fuses for higher-voltage applications, still limited to 1 A or less current.
- 8516.30.00 - Electrical fuses, with a rated voltage of 750 V or less and of a rated current exceeding 1 A. This covers fuses for low-voltage circuits requiring higher current protection.
- 8516.40.00 - Electrical fuses, with a rated voltage exceeding 750 V and of a rated current exceeding 1 A. This classification is for high-voltage, high-current fuses commonly used in industrial applications.
- 8517.10.00 - Electrical switches for a voltage of either ≤ 750 V. While primarily for switches, this code may be relevant if the fuse incorporates switching functionality.
- 8536.10.00 - Electrical connectors for a voltage of either ≤ 750 V. If the fuse is integrated into a connector assembly, this code could apply.
Regarding HS code 8516.10.00, 8516.20.00, 8516.30.00 and 8516.40.00, it is important to accurately determine the rated voltage and current of the fuse to ensure correct classification.