What is the difference between an MCB and a fuse?

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Detailed Solution

While both are designed to protect circuits from overcurrent, they are fundamentally different. An MCB is a complex electromechanical switch, while a fuse is a simple, sacrificial wire.

Here is a direct comparison:

Feature	MCB (Miniature Circuit Breaker)	Fuse
Reusability	Reusable. It can be reset manually after tripping.	One-time use. The internal wire melts and it must be replaced.
Operation	An automatic switch that trips and opens the circuit.	A thin wire engineered to melt ("blow") and break the circuit.
Cost	Higher initial purchase cost.	Very low initial cost, but requires purchasing replacements.
Sensitivity	Highly sensitive and provides a more precise and reliable trip point.	Less precise. Its melting characteristic can change with age.
Safety	Safer to restore power; simply flip a switch.	Requires handling and replacing parts, with a risk of using an incorrect rating.
Status Indication	Clearly indicates the circuit status (the switch is in the 'OFF' position).	Does not provide a clear visual indication; you may need to test it to see if it has blown.