What distinguishes a fusible disconnect from a circuit breaker?

A fusible disconnect is designed to provide a means of disconnecting electrical power while utilizing fuses for overcurrent protection. This means that when there is an overload or fault condition, the fuses will blow, interrupting the circuit and protecting the equipment from damage. Unlike circuit breakers, which can be reset after tripping, a fusible disconnect requires the replacement of the blown fuses to restore operation.

The distinction between using fuses and circuit breakers is significant in terms of functionality and application. Fuses provide a one-time protection method that must be replaced, while circuit breakers can be reset and reused. Understanding this key difference is critical for effective electrical system design and maintenance.