lämpökatkaisimiin

Lämpökatkaisija, often translated as thermal cutout or thermal fuse, is a safety device designed to interrupt an electrical circuit when a specific temperature is reached. Its primary function is to prevent overheating and potential fire hazards in electrical appliances and equipment. These devices are typically non-resettable, meaning once they have tripped due to excessive heat, they must be replaced to restore functionality. This single-use nature ensures that the underlying cause of the overheating is addressed before the device is reactivated.

The operation of a lämpökatkaisija relies on a material with a precisely defined melting point or a bimetallic strip that deforms at a specific temperature. When the ambient temperature or the temperature of the component it is monitoring exceeds this threshold, the material undergoes a change. In the case of a fusible element, it melts, breaking the electrical connection. If a bimetallic strip is used, its bending action physically separates contacts, interrupting the flow of current.

Lämpökatkaisijat are commonly found in a wide range of products, including hair dryers, toasters, coffee makers, electric heaters, motors, transformers, and power supplies. They are a crucial component in ensuring the safe operation of these devices by acting as a last line of defense against thermal runaway. The selection of a lämpökatkaisija involves choosing a device with an appropriate temperature rating and current carrying capacity for the application.