Fuses play an important role in protecting electronic devices from overcurrent-related damage. From appliances and light fixtures to flight instruments and radios, most electronic devices can only handle so much electricity.
Overcurrent is a phenomenon in which the current to which a device is exposed exceeds the device’s rated amperage. It can damage or destroy electronic devices. Heat is a byproduct of electricity. When overcurrent occurs, the device may heat up to the point where it sustains critical damage or even starts a fire. Fortunately, there are fuses available to prevent this from happening, such as AGC fuses.
What Are AGC Fuses?
AGC fuses are cylindrical glass fuses with a conductive metal cap on the top and bottom. The term “AGC” means “Auto Glass Cartridge.” This is a direct reference to their origins in the automotive industry.
AGC fuses were originally developed for use in cars, trucks and other automobiles where they protect individual electronic devices from overcurrent. However, they’ve since found their way into other industries, including the aerospace industry.
AGC fuses are made mostly of glass. They consist of a glass cylinder with a conductive wire or strip running from the top to bottom through the center.
How AGC Fuses Work
Like most other fuses, AGC fuses are single use, meaning you’ll have to replace them once they blow. Fuses blow when they experience overcurrent. An overcurrent event will melt or break the conductive wire in the center of an AGC fuse, at which point electricity will no longer be able to travel through the AGC fuse.
AGC fuses are designed for use with electronic devices. When they blow, devices to which they are connected will stop receiving electricity as a safety measure to protect against overcurrent. Replacing the blown AGC fuse will then restore power to the devices.
AGC vs AGW Fuses
In addition to AGC fuses, there are AGW fuses. The term “AGW” means “Auto Glass Wire.” AGW fuses feature a similar cylindrical glass design with a conductive wire in the center, but they differ from AGC fuses in several ways.
One of the biggest differences between AGC and AGW fuses involves the size of the conductive wire. AGW fuses have a thicker conductive wire than AGC fuses. As a result, AGW fuses can typically handle higher currents.
While you can find both types in different sizes, AGW fuses are typically larger than AGC fuses. This is because they are designed to handle higher currents. With their higher amperage ratings, AGW fuses are usually bigger than their AGC counterparts.
