Abstract: The invention relates to a wind turbine connected to a utility grid or another electric load. The wind turbine comprises at least one electric generator generating a high current, at least one substantially inflexible conductor conducting the current, a high current connector including a housing capable of conducting the current, where the housing comprises two or more openings for accommodating at least two conductor ends of the conductor. The wind turbine is characterized in that, the openings of the high current connector comprise one or more connections for providing an electric connection between the conductor ends and the housing, the connections are configured for allowing substantially unrestricted movements of the conductor ends in the conductors longitudinal direction. The invention further relates to a high current connector and uses hereof.

Abstract: A high voltage, current limiting device is connected in series with a high voltage power source and a protected load to interrupt current for an over-current condition [Typically 50 kA]. The current limiting device includes a current sensor/isolator and a switch connected in series. A current limiter, which may include a fuse or polymer current limiting material, is connected in parallel to the current sensor/isolator. The current sensor/isolator includes a pair of electrically insulated supports secured to a plurality of support rods to maintain the insulated supports at a predetermined fixed spacing to support an expulsion fuse. The expulsion fuse link includes a pair of copper conductors of adequate current carrying capability that are attached to ends of a main weak link fuse. A pair of coil springs hold the weak link fuse under tension to repel the conductors apart when the weak link fuse melts open during an over-current condition.

Abstract: A time-delay fuse 10 having a circular fusible element 22 with stress relief section 24. The cylindrical fuse element 22 is connected to a trigger mechanism 30 by solder or other meltable alloy. The trigger section 30 provides overload protection and the circular fusible element provides short circuit protection resulting in a time-delay fuse which can be used in places where there are size restrictions.

Abstract: A fuse link for an expulsion fuse used in connection with high voltage electrical transmission lines. The fuse link has an outer assembly in the form of a tube, a fuse element housed within the outer assembly, electrical connecting means serially connected to the fuse element to provide an electrical current path therethrough and, an arc-quenching medium, such as boric acid, contained within the outer assembly and in close proximity to the fuse element. In use, when the fuse element fuses due to excessive current a portion of the electrical connecting means is expelled from the outer assembly and the arc-quenching medium acts to inhibit a discharge of sparks due to arcing. The fuse element may comprise one or more fuse wires capable of withstanding a tensile force applied to it prior to fusing. Inhibiting any discharge of sparks is important to prevent accidental starting of fires particularly in forested areas.

Abstract: A welded composite fusible element utilizing weld joints, or welded hinges, to interconnect the component parts of it. The above referred-to weld joints or hinges interconnect portions of a fusible element which are fragile and easily damaged with portions of the fusible element which are rugged and which involve little or no danger of damage in the process of assembly. The function of stress relieving hinges or weld joints according to this invention is to protect the delicate component of the composite fusible element.

Abstract: A fuse link and a method of manufacturing same are disclosed. The fuse link comprises a fusible element extending between an upper terminal and a lower terminal. The lower terminal includes a compressed segment of a multi-strand cable to which the fusible element is attached. In practicing the method of the present invention, a segment of the multi-strand cable is first radially compressed, as by cold-forming, to produce a longitudinal receiving region or pocket indentation for receiving an end of the fusible element. Thereafter, an end of the fusible element is placed into the receiving region. The region is then further compressed and collapsed to secure the fusible element therein by crimping a compressible sleeve previously placed around the fusible element and the cable-segment.

Abstract: A thermal fuse apparatus comprising an insulating body and a fuse having a fuse body and a pair of connecting wires. The wires are inserted through passages in the insulating body, and the body includes recesses intersecting said passages so that a portion of the fuse wires are exposed exteriorly of the insulating body and excessible to counter contacts in an electrical appliance.

Abstract: Thermal switch, including a switching element formed of a coherently structured vitreous metal alloy. The switching element being in a vitreous-amorphous state and having a higher strength at a lower first temperature range, and in a crystalline state and having a lower strength at a higher second temperature range. A tensioning device cooperating with the switching element for exerting a force thereon which is sufficient to break the switching element in the crystalline state and insufficient to break the switching element in the vitreous amorphous state. A device for triggering a switching process in response to the breaking of the switching element in the vicinity of a transition from the first to the second temperature range. An exchangeable cassette assembly for housing the switching element, and a method for protecting circuits against overcurrents using the thermal switch.

Abstract: A metallic terminator member is mounted at each end of a support member for a fusible element of a high-voltage fuse. Each terminator member has a serrated tab projecting into the normal path of the fusible element so that the fusible element can be easily welded to the serrated tab without being distorted and at reduced welding temperatures to avoid damage to the fusible element. The terminator members also have positioning fingers that position the terminator member within the fuse housing and a tab for attaching the terminator member to the end ferrules of the fuse. The terminator members also include a center keyed opening that receives the support member and positions and retains the support member. A wire retainer can be used to engage grooves in the ends of the support member that extend through the keyed opening to lock the terminator member to the support member.