NTE Thermal Cut-Offs (TCOs): Essential Safety Components in Electrical Equipment

1. Overview:

   • NTE offers a wide range of axial and radial lead thermal cut-offs, also known as thermal fuses or TCOs.
   • A thermal fuse is a one-time use safety device that prevents overheating in electrical equipment.

2. Function and Design:

   • Operates differently from a thermal switch; it doesn't reset but permanently opens the circuit when triggered.
   • Contains a thermal pellet or fusible alloy that melts at a preset temperature, breaking the circuit to prevent overheating.

3. Typical Applications:

   • Found in heat-producing electrical appliances like HVAC equipment, small home appliances (coffee makers, hair dryers, toasters), water heaters, and motors.
   • Protects against fire hazards by disconnecting the current in case of a malfunction.

4. Selection Criteria:

   • Choose based on the maximum temperature experienced during normal operation, including short-term overshoots.
   • Marked with opening temperature and/or part number for easy identification and replacement.

5. Life Expectancy and Nuisance Trips:

   • Life expectancy depends on the operating temperature relative to the fuse's rating.
   • A rating too close to normal operating temperature may increase the risk of nuisance trips.

6. Storage Precautions:

   • Low-temperature TCOs, like the NTE8065, can be sensitive to high storage or transportation temperatures.

7. Installation and Soldering:

   • Careful soldering is crucial to avoid premature stress or damage.
   • NTE recommends using heat-sinked soldering techniques or their crimp splices (P/N: TCO-SPLICE) to prevent damage from high temperatures.

NTE's thermal cut-offs are vital for ensuring safety in various electrical appliances, offering reliable protection against potential overheating and fire hazards.