Attachments:

bus-ele-cat-1007-flc-2018-sec-06-pv.pdf

[Eaton Bussmann series Full line catalog: Photovoltaic fuses, holders and blocks]

3804 kB

Eaton Bussmann Series Photovoltaic Fuses, Holders and Blocks: A Complete Guide to Solar Circuit Protection

Introduction

As solar energy systems continue to expand across residential, commercial and utility-scale applications, reliable electrical protection is essential for ensuring system safety, performance and long-term reliability. Eaton Bussmann series photovoltaic (PV) fuses, fuse holders and fuse blocks are designed to help protect solar installations against overcurrent conditions, reverse currents and faults that can occur within photovoltaic arrays.

The Eaton Bussmann Series Full Line Catalog, Section 6 – Photovoltaic Fuses, Holders and Blocks, provides an overview of a wide range of solar circuit protection solutions. The product portfolio includes PV fuses for different voltage and current ratings, in-line fuse assemblies, modular fuse holders and fuse blocks for a variety of photovoltaic applications.

This guide explores the key product families, their features, typical applications and important considerations when selecting photovoltaic circuit protection components.

What Are Photovoltaic Fuses?

Photovoltaic fuses are specialised electrical protection devices designed for use in solar power systems. Unlike conventional overcurrent protection devices, PV fuses must be suitable for the operating characteristics of solar installations, including high DC voltages, changing environmental conditions and fault currents caused by reverse current or faults involving multiple connected PV strings.

In a solar array, several strings of photovoltaic modules may be connected in parallel. If a fault occurs in one string, current from other strings can potentially flow into the affected circuit. Correctly selected PV fuses help interrupt excessive current and reduce the risk of damage to modules, conductors and other electrical equipment.

Eaton Bussmann series PV fuses are available in a range of sizes, current ratings and voltage classes, supporting different system architectures and installation requirements.

Overview of Eaton Bussmann Series PV Fuse Products

The Eaton Bussmann series photovoltaic portfolio described in the catalog includes several fuse families designed for different applications.

1. PVM 600 V DC Photovoltaic Fuses

PVM fuses are compact, fast-acting photovoltaic fuses designed for systems requiring 600 V DC protection. The catalog describes these fuses as being suitable for demanding ambient temperatures, frequent electrical cycling and low-level fault current conditions associated with PV systems.

Key specifications include:

• Voltage rating: 600 V DC

• Current ratings: 4–30 A

• Interrupting rating: 50 kA DC

• Fuse size: 13/32 × 1½ inches, equivalent to approximately 10 × 38 mm

• Typical applications: solar combiner boxes and string protection

The PVM family is designed to help protect photovoltaic circuits where reverse current and multi-array faults are potential concerns.

2. PVS-R Class RK5 Photovoltaic Fuses

The PVS-R series offers Class RK5 current-limiting fuse protection for photovoltaic applications. These fuses are intended for systems requiring protection against ground faults and short circuits, with ratings for both AC and DC applications as specified in the catalog.

Key specifications include:

• Voltage rating: 600 V AC and 600 V DC, subject to the applicable rating

• Current ratings: 20–400 A

• Interrupting rating: up to 200 kA RMS symmetrical AC

• DC interrupting rating: dependent on the fuse current rating

• Typical applications: photovoltaic systems, inverters, safety switches and recombiner boxes

The PVS-R family provides an option for higher-current protection where its fuse class and ratings match the electrical design requirements.

3. PV 1000 V DC, 10 × 38 mm Fuses

Eaton Bussmann series PV 10 × 38 mm fuses are designed to protect and isolate photovoltaic strings in systems rated up to 1000 V DC.

The catalog identifies several termination options, including cylindrical fuse links, bolt-on versions, printed circuit board (PCB) terminals and crimp-terminal versions. This flexibility supports different equipment layouts and connection methods.

Key specifications include:

• Voltage rating: 1000 V DC

• Current ratings: 1–20 A

• Interrupting rating: 50 kA

• Fuse format: 10 × 38 mm

• Typical applications: combiner boxes, inverters and PV wire harnesses

The range is intended for photovoltaic circuits exposed to demanding temperatures, repeated electrical cycling and low fault current conditions.

4. HPV In-Line Photovoltaic Fuse Assemblies

The HPV series provides an in-line fuse and holder assembly designed for photovoltaic wire harnesses. Its construction incorporates an insulating boot and a non-serviceable assembly format.

According to the catalog, the HPV range includes 1000 V DC assemblies, with a specific 1500 V DC model identified in the product section.

Key features include:

• In-line protection for photovoltaic wire harnesses

• Crimp connections for compatible PV conductors

• IP67 dust-tight and submersible construction

• UV-resistant insulating materials

• Specified operating temperature range of −40°C to +90°C

In-line fuse assemblies can be useful where protection needs to be integrated directly into a cable harness rather than installed in a conventional panel-mounted fuse block.

5. PV 14 × 51 mm Fuses

The PV 14 × 51 mm family is designed for protecting and isolating photovoltaic strings. These fuses are intended to interrupt low overcurrents that may occur during faults in PV systems.

The catalog lists 15–32 A models, with voltage ratings depending on the current rating of the individual fuse.

Typical specifications include:

• Voltage ratings: 1000 V DC or 1100 V DC, depending on the model

• Current ratings: 15–32 A

• Interrupting rating: 10 kA

• Typical applications: combiner boxes and inverters

Selecting the correct model requires checking its individual voltage rating, current rating, interrupting capacity and compatibility with the associated fuse holder.

6. PV 1500 V DC, 10 × 85 mm Fuses

Higher-voltage photovoltaic systems can benefit from fuse products specifically designed for 1500 V DC applications. The catalog includes the Eaton Bussmann series PV 10 × 85 mm fuse family for protecting and isolating photovoltaic strings.

Key characteristics include:

• Voltage rating: 1500 V DC

• Catalog-listed current range: 2.25–30 A

• Interrupting rating: 30 kA at the specified test conditions

• Operating class: gPV

• Compatible holder: CHPV15L85 DIN-rail fuse holder

These fuses are intended for PV circuits where high DC voltage and low fault current conditions must be considered in the protection design.

7. NH Photovoltaic Fuses

The Eaton Bussmann series NH photovoltaic fuse range includes blade and bolt-on versions designed for larger PV circuits.

These products are intended for applications such as array combiners, recombiners, disconnects and inverters.

Key specifications include:

• Voltage rating: 1000 V DC

• Current ratings: 32–400 A

• Interrupting rating: 50 kA

• Available configurations: blade and bolt-on

Blade-style versions are installed in compatible fuse blocks, while bolt-on versions attach directly to suitable busbar and conductor terminals. The choice depends on the equipment design, installation requirements and electrical ratings.

8. XL Photovoltaic Fuses

The catalog also includes XL-size photovoltaic fuses for 1000 V DC and 1500 V DC applications. These products are designed for protecting and isolating photovoltaic array combiners and disconnects.

The family includes higher-current options for systems where smaller cylindrical fuse formats may not be appropriate. Certain models also offer optional microswitches for integration into monitoring arrangements.

When evaluating XL fuses, engineers should confirm the precise catalog number, voltage rating, current rating, interrupting capacity and compatible mounting arrangement before specifying a product.

Eaton Bussmann Series PV Fuse Holders

PV fuse holders provide a secure mounting and electrical connection for compatible fuse links. Choosing a holder with the correct voltage, current and fuse-size ratings is important for ensuring that the assembled protection system performs as intended.

CHPV Modular Fuse Holders

The CHPV family includes modular holders for compatible 10 × 38 mm photovoltaic fuses.

The catalog lists a 1000 V DC rating and a 30 A rating for the CHPV range. One- and two-pole configurations are identified, with optional open-fuse indication available for applicable versions.

Potential benefits include:

• Modular installation

• Compatibility with specified 10 × 38 mm PV fuses

• Options for indicating an open fuse

• Integration into suitable PV electrical assemblies

The exact holder configuration must match the fuse, system voltage, current requirements and installation arrangement.

CHPV15L85 DIN-Rail Fuse Holder

The CHPV15L85 is designed for compatible 10 × 85 mm and 14 × 85 mm photovoltaic fuse formats, as identified in the catalog.

Its listed ratings include:

• Voltage rating: 1500 V DC

• Current rating: 32 A

This holder supports installations using compatible high-voltage PV fuse links. Before selection, verify the specific fuse dimensions, electrical ratings, terminal requirements and manufacturer installation instructions.

Eaton Bussmann Series Photovoltaic Fuse Blocks

Fuse blocks provide mounting and electrical connection points for compatible fuse links, particularly in panel assemblies, combiner boxes and larger solar power systems.

BPVM Modular Fuse Blocks

The BPVM series is designed for compatible 10 × 38 mm photovoltaic fuses. The catalog lists a 1000 V DC rating and a 30 A rating.

The product family includes a modular fuse-block format with an optional cover, making it suitable for equipment designs that require an organised and accessible fuse mounting arrangement.

When specifying BPVM blocks, confirm fuse compatibility, required pole configuration, terminal arrangement and installation conditions.

SD and TD Photovoltaic Fuse Blocks

For larger PV fuse formats, the catalog includes SD and TD fuse-block families compatible with specified XL and NH fuse sizes.

The catalog identifies ratings up to 1500 V DC and current ratings up to 630 A for applicable configurations.

These fuse blocks are intended for higher-current photovoltaic applications, where appropriate fuse mounting, electrical clearances, conductor sizing and fault protection are critical design considerations.

The exact ratings depend on the selected block and its compatible fuse configuration. Product-level documentation should always be consulted before installation.

Key Benefits of Eaton Bussmann Series PV Circuit Protection

Selecting suitable photovoltaic fuses, holders and blocks helps engineers design solar electrical systems around the particular demands of DC power generation.

Protection Against PV Fault Currents

Photovoltaic fuse families described in the catalog are designed for specified fault conditions, including reverse current and faults involving multiple PV arrays. Correct selection helps protect compatible circuit components against damaging overcurrent conditions.

Support for Different System Voltages

The product range includes solutions for 600 V, 1000 V and 1500 V DC applications, depending on the specific fuse family and model. This range allows designers to evaluate protection components for different photovoltaic system architectures.

Flexible Mounting and Connection Options

Cylindrical fuse links, bolt-on designs, PCB terminals, crimp-terminal assemblies and modular fuse holders provide different options for integrating protection into solar equipment.

Integration into Combiner Boxes and Inverters

Several product families are intended for photovoltaic combiner boxes, recombiner boxes, inverters, disconnects and wire harnesses. Choosing components designed for the intended application helps simplify equipment design and component selection.

Consideration of Energy Efficiency

Some catalog-listed fuse families feature low power-loss characteristics. Evaluating fuse power loss and temperature rise can be useful when designing equipment for continuous operation and demanding ambient conditions.

How to Select the Right Photovoltaic Fuse

Choosing a PV fuse involves more than matching its current rating to the expected operating current. The complete protection design should account for the electrical characteristics of the PV array, the installation environment and the relevant standards.

1. Determine the Maximum System Voltage

Select a fuse with a DC voltage rating suitable for the maximum possible circuit voltage, including the effects of low-temperature increases in PV module open-circuit voltage where applicable.

The fuse and its holder or block must both be suitable for the intended system voltage.

2. Calculate the Required Current Rating

Consider the PV module specifications, string design, potential reverse current, conductor ampacity and applicable electrical codes. Fuse sizing should follow the manufacturer's application guidance and the relevant local requirements.

3. Check the Interrupting Rating

The fuse must be capable of safely interrupting the prospective fault current under the applicable DC circuit conditions. Do not assume that interrupting ratings are identical across different fuse models or voltage classes.

4. Confirm Fuse Dimensions and Mounting Compatibility

Match the fuse size and termination format to the intended holder, block or electrical assembly. A fuse with the correct electrical rating may still be unsuitable if its physical format or terminal arrangement is incompatible.

5. Evaluate Environmental Conditions

Solar installations can experience high temperatures, UV exposure, moisture and repeated thermal cycling. Select components with suitable environmental ratings and install them in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions.

6. Verify Applicable Standards and Certifications

Review the current product documentation for the relevant UL, IEC, CSA or other required approvals. Certification details can differ between models and may change as product ranges are updated.

Common Applications of PV Fuses, Holders and Blocks

Eaton Bussmann series photovoltaic protection products are described for use across a range of solar power equipment.

• PV string protection: Helps protect individual string circuits against specified overcurrent faults.

• Solar combiner boxes: Supports protection arrangements for circuits combining multiple PV strings.

• Recombiner boxes: Provides options for larger photovoltaic installations with multiple combined circuits.

• Solar inverters: Supports appropriately rated protection within compatible inverter-related circuits.

• PV wire harnesses: In-line fuse assemblies provide an option for integrating protection into cable assemblies.

• DC disconnect equipment: Compatible fuse products can be used in specified photovoltaic disconnect arrangements.

The suitability of any particular product depends on the circuit design, equipment configuration and manufacturer's application requirements.

Why Consult the Eaton Bussmann Series Full Line Catalog?

The Eaton Bussmann Series Full Line Catalog, Section 6, brings together information on photovoltaic fuses, fuse holders and fuse blocks, helping electrical engineers, solar equipment manufacturers, installers and procurement teams compare product families.

The catalog includes product descriptions, current and voltage ratings, fuse dimensions, selected interrupting ratings, application examples and compatible accessories. It also identifies individual catalog numbers that can help narrow down component options during design and purchasing.

However, this section is dated October 2018. It should be treated as a historical product-selection reference rather than confirmation of current availability, present-day certification status or the latest technical specifications. Always verify the chosen model against current manufacturer documentation before ordering or installing equipment.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are Eaton Bussmann series PV fuses used for?

They are designed for specified overcurrent protection applications in photovoltaic systems, including string circuits, combiner boxes, inverters and other compatible solar electrical equipment.

What voltage ratings are available in the catalog?

The catalog describes several product families for 600 V, 1000 V and 1500 V DC applications, as well as particular models with other stated ratings. The correct voltage rating depends on the specific fuse model and its intended application.

What is the difference between a PV fuse holder and a fuse block?

A fuse holder provides a mounting and electrical connection arrangement for a compatible fuse. A fuse block provides a mounting and connection structure for one or more compatible fuse links within an electrical assembly. The terminology and exact configuration depend on the product family.

Are all PV fuses compatible with all holders and blocks?

No. Compatibility depends on fuse dimensions, terminal style, voltage rating, current rating and the manufacturer's specified combinations. Always check the applicable product documentation.

How do I choose between 1000 V DC and 1500 V DC PV fuses?

The choice depends on the maximum circuit voltage and the design of the photovoltaic system. The fuse, holder or block, conductors and associated equipment must all be suitable for the intended operating conditions.

Can this 2018 catalog be used to confirm current product availability?

No. It provides historical technical and selection information. Current availability, product revisions, certifications and replacement recommendations should be verified using up-to-date manufacturer documentation.

Conclusion

Eaton Bussmann series photovoltaic fuses, fuse holders and fuse blocks cover a broad range of solar circuit protection applications, from compact PV string circuits to higher-current combiner and recombiner equipment. The product families described in the Full Line Catalog include PVM, PVS-R, PV 10 × 38 mm, HPV in-line assemblies, PV 14 × 51 mm, PV 10 × 85 mm, NH and XL fuses, alongside compatible CHPV, CHPV15L85, BPVM, SD and TD mounting solutions.

By evaluating voltage ratings, current requirements, interrupting capacity, fuse dimensions, environmental conditions and applicable standards, designers can make more informed decisions when specifying photovoltaic circuit protection.

For the best results, use the catalog as a starting point for product comparison and verify all final selections against current Eaton documentation and the requirements of the specific solar installation.