Question

Compare the effectiveness of a current, limiting circuit breaker with that of a HRC fuse.

Basic function of both of them is the same and that is the protection of electrical circuitry against any fault current, in excess to cause damage.

Current limiting breaker.

The rating of the breaker is such that it can take current up to a certain value [limiting] after which it breaks open the circuit.

Also there’s a time delay for the over current to be present, only after which it disconnect

Example. An over current relay set to operate after ‘t’ seconds, once the breaker has tripped, it has to be reset to get back the continuity of electrical supply, usually it is manual reset.

HRC fuse.

A fuse is rated as per the current capacity example, 1A, 2A, 5A, etc.

The fuse provided for instant operation i.e. once there is large short circuit current, the fuse will rupture and disconnect the electrical supply. There is no time delay involved.

A blown out fuse needs replacement with a new one.