Abstract: The invention relates to a novel method of producing a resistor device comprising a PTC-polymer element 2 and a varistor element 4. Both elements are molded in a common molding process using one common mold. Preferred is co-injection molding. The invention further relates to the resistor device thus produced and a current limit means including the resistor device and a switch (FIG. 4).

Abstract: The invention relates to a novel method of producing a resistor device comprising a PTC-polymer element 2 and a varistor element 4. Both elements are moulded in a common moulding process using one common mould. Preferred is co-injection moulding. The invention further relates to the resistor device thus produced and a current limit means including the resistor device and a switch (FIG. 4).

Abstract: A protective element for protecting in particular an electric motor against overload currents includes in a polymer matrix, preferably ETFE, for example 40% (by volume) of a first powdered filler of a conductive material, preferably TiB2, so that, as in the case of a PTC element, the resistance increases abruptly at a switching temperature corresponding to the melting temperature of the polymer. Also added are 20% (by volume) of a second powdered filler, a phase transition material which, at a critical temperature below the switching temperature, undergoes a phase transition in which it absorbs heat of transformation. As a result, the response time (T) of the protective element is notably extended in a range of the overload current factor (F) corresponding to higher permissible motor starting currents.