Lämpökatkaisijat

Lämpökatkaisijat, also known as thermal cutoffs or thermal fuses, are safety devices designed to protect electrical appliances and circuits from overheating. They function by interrupting the flow of electricity when a predetermined temperature is reached. This prevents damage to the device, fire hazards, and potential injury.

The primary mechanism of a lämpökatkaisija involves a fusible link or a bimetallic strip. In a fusible link design, a special alloy with a low melting point is used. When the temperature exceeds the rated limit, the alloy melts, breaking the electrical connection. A bimetallic strip design utilizes two different metals with varying thermal expansion rates. As the temperature rises, the strip bends, causing a contact to open and interrupt the circuit.

Lämpökatkaisijat are typically single-use devices. Once they have operated and interrupted the circuit, they must be replaced. This is a crucial safety feature, ensuring that the cause of the overheating is identified and rectified before a new thermal cutoff is installed. They are commonly found in a wide range of products, including hair dryers, coffee makers, transformers, electric motors, and power supplies. Their compact size and reliability make them an essential component for electrical safety. The selection of a lämpökatkaisija involves choosing one with an appropriate temperature rating that is above the normal operating temperature but below the critical failure temperature of the device it protects.