A Useful Guide For Replacing Plug Fuses

[nbwriter]

hi guys & gals,

thanks for continued feedback : certainly, as @Lucien Nunes suggests, appliance could still have internal faults - even with a "compliant fuse" fitted. without getting too "supergeeky", plug, fuse and wiring form part of the circuit, so that's where I focused my repair efforts. (in original forum post, OP mentioned changing entire plug too).

from observations, I've noted brass pins can be dull (on older plugs) and of course, it's a good idea to check all terminal connections are clean and tight inside plug casing.

Generally, I attempt to fault trace what I can, rather than disassembling appliances. (I'm not a pro-trained electrician, so keep away from capacitors and "live working"). ? Ironically, I've just been involved in disassembling a an old Zanussi FL 1032 washing machine... but I'll spare you all the grizzly details ? (couldnt see any capacitors inside the unit).

Since a few members mentioned Maplins (being overpriced) I wondered what the word was "on the wire" about their demise. Generally, it seems company couldnt "compete with online retailers" like Amazon. (I must be old skool, I still like to look someone in the eye when I buy anything, especially something like electronic components).

Anyway, as per @Darkwood original observation, I managed to hunt down a website that lists better manufacturers of fuses. [pic attached] the general thrust of my guide is to assist you guys in the field, as i know what it feels like to be charged with fixing something that refuses to work. (knowledge is power).

RS Components:

"Fuses should have a current rating that is slightly higher than the standard operating current of the device. This means that the fuse will not blow and trip the circuit in the event of a low, harmless surge."

Bussmann have produced a vid detailing how larger cartridge fuses are made (youtube, not sure I can post that here)? Basically, in genuine fuses they use a "44/100 sand filler" and "check voltage throughout" the fuse, before it's retailed.

kind regards, NB

 

[telectrix]

i never known of a 1" piece of 6mm screwed rod blowing, think rating is around 3000A. that'll run all your appliances off of a 8 way extension lead and still be able to cope with the cooker and shower. ???

 

[nbwriter]

i never known of a 1" piece of 6mm screwed rod blowing, think rating is around 3000A. that'll run all your appliances off of a 8 way extension lead and still be able to cope with the cooker and shower.

i've been on this forum so long, I actually got this joke ?

anyway... the debate about Maplins fascinates me... because getting balance right between quality and reasonable cost is probably the secret to success... maybe?

It also went a lot more consumer goods based rather than an electronic hobbyists store like it was originally

From what I can tell, Maplins was set up by two supergeeks (like me, I guess)? who couldnt find quality components for their electronics projects.... As DPG points out, they diversified into "consumer goods", rather than sticking with components and tools for the trade (is there a lesson here)?

Anyway, for the nostalgic among you, I came across a "Maplins Universal Charger" (for laptops) during my sort out... Checking it carefully, its fitted with a genuine "bussmann" fuse and even the molded plug has a BS rating. I repair many chargers and laptops (just as a hobbyist mind you). This thing came with multiple plugs, can cope with a range of voltages, has a digital display and survived my sister's household (3 teenagers, 2 dogs and one husband who works in construction trade) for two years! ?

Maybe it's my old skool ways, but spending a few quid extra (sometimes) leads to considerable savings down the line...

kind regards, NB