Enclosed, non-vented fuse suitable for use with universal fuse links

摘要

An enclosed, non-vented expulsion fuse comprises a hermetically sealed tank, having a universal load-side bushing well and a line-side fuse module mounted thereon. The fuse module includes a stationary element fixedly mounted to the tank, and a fuse cartridge removably mounted in the stationary element. The fuse cartridge includes a universal bushing well which provides a line terminal connection at a bushing well cap thereof. This fuse bushing well includes a feedthrough connection to a removable fuse holder assembly which, in turn, is mounted within a torque tube portion of the fuse cartridge. The torque tube engages the fuse bushing well and is removably secured at a lower end of the fuse holder assembly by way of a spring clip. The lower end of the fuse holder assembly includes a conductive latch which removably secures the fuse holder assembly to a lower conductive pressure container portion of the stationary element, upon rotation of the fuse bushing well. The fuse bushing well is rotated by a safety interlocking handle which latches the fuse bushing well cap in its sealed position with respect to the stationary element. The removable fuse holder assembly includes an insulated fuse tube having an arc-responsive liner which receives a universal fuse link therein. A conductive strap couples the conductive container to the load-side bushing well to complete a fuse circuit. The container includes a thermal quenching medium which acts to rapidly remove thermal energy from the expanding gases which result from the arc drawn in the fuse holder once the fuse element melts.