A dual-element fuse is defined by which components?

• A. Two normal one-time fuse links
• B. A thermal cutout only
• C. A thermal cutout and a normal fuse link
• D. The ability to carry locked-rotor current of a motor but not to protect against short circuits

Answer: (C)

A dual-element fuse combines two protective parts in one device: a thermal cutout that opens the circuit when temperature rises too high, and a normal fuse link that melts when current exceeds its rating. This pairing provides protection from both overheating and overcurrent conditions, including short circuits. That’s why the description that includes both a thermal cutout and a normal fuse link is the best fit. The other options don’t match because two normal fuse links offer current protection only, a thermal cutout alone offers temperature protection only, and the last choice describes a capability not associated with the dual-element concept.