I am working on a revision of the Decapede board [reprap.org].
The Decapede is spec'ed for 24A total continuous at 24V. I think that is doable with 2oz copper and generous traces (rule of thumb, 100 mil is good for 10A).
The board has a single fuse, rated up to 60A. I think that is a bit optimistic, but even with a smaller fuse it means that up to 24A could be dumped into any output (hotend heater, stepper driver) before the main fuse blows. I would think that there is a lot of melting that could take place before the main fuse provides protection.
So I am thinking some smaller fuses wold be a good idea to limit current, either singly in groups. As usual, space and cost are issues. I see there are surface mount fuses which are small but not very cheap. Dare I say, PTCs?
Can suggest anything that is small, cheap and effective, or maybe should I try something else/not bother?
The Decapede is spec'ed for 24A total continuous at 24V. I think that is doable with 2oz copper and generous traces (rule of thumb, 100 mil is good for 10A).
The board has a single fuse, rated up to 60A. I think that is a bit optimistic, but even with a smaller fuse it means that up to 24A could be dumped into any output (hotend heater, stepper driver) before the main fuse blows. I would think that there is a lot of melting that could take place before the main fuse provides protection.
So I am thinking some smaller fuses wold be a good idea to limit current, either singly in groups. As usual, space and cost are issues. I see there are surface mount fuses which are small but not very cheap. Dare I say, PTCs?
Can suggest anything that is small, cheap and effective, or maybe should I try something else/not bother?