Fusible Link Function in Cars, Types, How It Works and Maintenance
A fusible link is one of the components that has a vital function in a car. So what is its function? For more details, please pay attention to the following review.
Function of Fusible Link
A fusible link is one of the components in the car electrical system. This component has very important functions as follows.
1. Protecting electrical components
The main function of a fusible link is to protect electrical components in the car such as ECU, starter motor, ignition system, or alternator from damage caused by electrical overload or short circuits.
2. Maintaining the performance of the electrical system
Since the fusible link can protect electrical components, it is certain that this component can also maintain the performance of the electrical system so that the system can operate well.
3. Preventing fires
Electrical overload or short circuits can be the main trigger for fires in cars because they cause wires to burn. This condition can be prevented by the fusible link because this component will cut off the electrical flow if the load exceeds its predetermined electrical load, thus addressing the problem earlier.
Types of Fusible Link
In the market, fusible links are categorized into several types based on current capacity and melting point as well as their shape. The following are the complete types.
1. Based on current capacity and melting point
The complete types are as follows.
- Standard fusible link: a fusible link with an electrical current capacity of 20 A to 80 A.
- High voltage fusible link: a fusible link that has a current capacity and melting point above 80 A. This type is usually used in car ignition systems
- Thermal fusible link: a fusible link that is specially designed to cut off the electrical current if the temperature in the car's electrical system exceeds the established standard.
2. Based on shape
The complete types are as follows.
- Cartridge type fusible link: this type is often used in car electrical systems. Because the cartridge type fusible link has terminals that are directly connected to the fuse with the core part and has color codes. Each code has a different ampere (A) capacity. Example: pink (30 A), green (40 A), red (50 A), yellow (60 A), black (80 A), blue (100 A).
- Link type fusible link: this type melts easily, thus cutting off the electrical flow that exceeds the load capacity. To work well, this type of fusible link is made from metal wire material.
How Fusible Link Works
The operation of a fusible link begins when the car's electrical system experiences a short circuit or electrical overload. When this condition occurs, the electrical current flowing to the fusible link will increase drastically, causing the temperature in the fusible link's metal wire to also rise. As a result, the metal wire will melt and cut off all existing electrical flow.
Tips for Maintaining Fusible Link
To ensure the fusible link lasts, you can apply the following tips.
1. Check the condition of the fusible link regularly
By routinely inspecting the fusible link, you can know the current condition of the fusible link. Is there any corrosion or burn marks? This way, you can make repairs earlier. If the fusible link is damaged, replace the component immediately.
2. Avoid replacing the fusible link with ordinary wire
Avoid replacing the wire in a damaged fusible link with ordinary wire as it can cause serious damage to the car's electrical system.
In addition to the tips above, you should also have your car's condition thoroughly checked at the official Daihatsu workshop so that component damage can be monitored properly.
