Thermal Cutouts

Thermal Cutouts

Thermal cutouts are safety devices designed to protect electrical equipment from overheating. They are commonly used in appliances such as hair dryers, toasters, and electric blankets, as well as in industrial equipment such as motors, transformers, and generators. The purpose of a thermal cutout is to prevent the equipment from operating at temperatures that could cause damage or create a fire hazard. A thermal cutout typically consists of a bimetallic strip or a thermistor that is sensitive to temperature changes. When the temperature of the equipment exceeds a certain threshold, the bimetallic strip or thermistor expands and triggers a switch that interrupts the electrical circuit. This prevents the equipment from continuing to operate until it has cooled down to a safe temperature. Thermal cutouts are important safety features because they prevent equipment from overheating, which can cause damage to the equipment or create a fire hazard. They are also useful in preventing injuries to people who may come into contact with the equipment. For example, if a hair dryer overheats and a thermal cutout is not present, the user could be burned or electrocuted. In summary, thermal cutouts are safety devices that protect electrical equipment from overheating. They work by interrupting the electrical circuit when the temperature of the equipment exceeds a certain threshold. Thermal cutouts are important safety features that prevent damage to equipment and injuries to people.

safety devices, electrical equipment, overheating, bimetallic strip, thermistor

— Jeffrey Taylor

CITATION : "Jeffrey Taylor. 'Thermal Cutouts.' Design+Encyclopedia. https://design-encyclopedia.com/?E=403095 (Accessed on July 16, 2025)"