What is a fuse resistor?

Fuses are used as resistors, and when the current is abnormal, they act as fuses to protect the resistors in machinery and equipment.

Resistors and fuses share similar materials and construction, and due to their dual-purpose functionality, the cost is accordingly reduced. Fuse resistors can be categorized into: metal foil fuse resistor, fuse-type winding resistor, and fuse-type cement resistor. The power ratings of fuse resistors include: 1/4W, 1/2W, 1W, and 2W. As the power rating increases, the product dimensions will continuously grow.

Fusible resistor values are typically small, mostly less than 1 ohm, often serving as sampling resistors in circuits. They also play a role during surges or when large currents are produced, necessitating the protection of the circuit. Their melting and breaking the circuit provide protective functions.

The fuse resistors are mostly surface mount types, known for their stable performance, generally referred to as Jiebxin fuse resistors or Jiebxin SMD fuse resistors. These products are available in both fast-blow and slow-blow varieties.

Can fuse resistors replace resistors?

The load on a resistor has a certain limit; that is, if the current passing through the resistor exceeds this limit, it can be burnt out, causing the resistor to present an open-circuit state. In this sense, resistors have a similar function to fuses—they can interrupt the current when the circuit is overloaded, seemingly acting as a fuse. Therefore, some insurance resistor manufacturers, in order to reduce costs, replace the original fuse design with a cheaper insurance resistor, giving customers a bit more sense of security in appearance.

But can the fuse resistor actually replace the fuse and serve the same purpose?

As for safety features, fuses are ensured by rated voltage, breaking capacity, and other indicators, particularly through authoritative third-party safety certifications. However, the fuse resistor itself is not a safety component and does not require safety certification. Its safety is self-evident, as its protective function is inherently insufficient, and it's challenging to ensure no unsafe phenomena occur during the melting process.