With the goal of providing photovoltaic (PV) system OEMs greater flexibility in protecting more efficient, higher voltage power PV arrays, Cooper Bussmann, a leader in critical circuit protection, power management and electrical safety, is launching a new range of 1500Vdc photovoltaic fuses. With the highest ratings ever achieved by a fuse manufacturer, the new line represents a breakthrough in fuse performance that permits OEMs to design more efficient solar power systems that use smaller conductors, components and save costs. With UL, IEC and CCC approvals, the entire line permits designers to create systems that are globally accepted.   PV system manufacturers can select from sizes ranging from a 14x65mm ferrule fuse to four square body XL sizes, with ampacities from 15 to 400 amps.   

Designed specifically to protect and isolate PV array combiners and disconnects, these high performance fuses are capable of interrupting low overcurrents associated with faulted PV systems, such as reverse current and multi-array faults. The XL size PV fuses with their compact dimensions and options for blade or bolt mounting provide simple and cost effective project design and installation. The 14x65mm size comes with ferrules, bolt tags or 10mm fixings to accommodate multiple mounting designs.  

 “The use of higher voltages in PV systems is becoming the global standard. PV system OEMs need a source for overcurrent protection solutions that are capable of meeting their unique requirements,” said Ivo Jurek, Group President, Cooper Bussmann and Cooper Power Systems. “The new line of 1500Vdc fuses is an innovative solution offering OEMs a new level of circuit protection with unsurpassed performance in a compact package that expands their system design possibilities and permits higher levels of efficiency and system economy.”