Radial PCB Fuses at Electronica Embajadores
Radial PCB fuses are an effective and reliable solution for protecting electronic circuits against overcurrent, short circuits, and thermal failures. At Electronica Embajadores, we offer a wide catalogue of radial PCB fuses suitable for various industrial, commercial, and domestic applications. Their compact design and ease of integration onto printed circuit boards (PCBs) make them an essential component in any electronic system architecture requiring thermal protection or current limitation.
What is a radial PCB fuse?
A radial PCB fuse is a safety device designed to interrupt the flow of electric current when a certain threshold is exceeded, whether due to overload, short circuit, or thermal failure. Unlike traditional cylindrical fuses or fuse holders, radial fuses are specifically designed for through-hole mounting directly onto printed circuit boards (THT – Through Hole Technology).
They are called "radial" because of the arrangement of their terminals, which protrude parallel from the base of the fuse body, allowing perpendicular insertion into the PCB. This provides better mechanical robustness and stronger solder joints, ideal for applications subject to vibration or high thermal demands.
Advantages of using radial PCB fuses
- Secure mounting: Thanks to their insertion technology, they offer a mechanically stronger connection for harsh conditions.
- High interrupting capacity: They can effectively break currents exceeding their rating without compromising the rest of the system.
- Compact design: Perfect for PCBs with space constraints or dense layouts.
- Wide range: Available in fast-acting (F) or time-delay (T) versions to suit different power consumption profiles.
- Compliance with standards: Products meet international standards such as UL and RoHS, ensuring safety and durability.
Main technical specifications
The radial PCB fuses available in Electronica Embajadores’ catalogue offer an optimal combination of performance, durability, and ease of use. Some of their key technical features include:
- Operating voltage: Up to 250 V AC for most models, allowing use on standard power lines.
- Rated currents: Available from very low values such as 63 mA up to 6.3 A to protect devices with higher demands.
- TR5 format: One of the most common in the PCB fuse range, with a 5.08 mm pin spacing.
- Blow characteristics: Fast-acting (F) for instant protection and slow-blow or time-delay (T) for applications with initial surges.
- THT compatibility: Rigid and plated terminals, ready for soldering on perforated PCBs.
How a radial fuse works on a PCB
The operating principle of a radial PCB fuse is simple yet effective. Under normal conditions, current flows freely through the fuse’s internal conductor. However, when an electrical overload occurs, the conductor’s temperature rapidly rises. This causes the internal filament to melt or thermally degrade, interrupting the current flow and protecting the rest of the circuit’s electronic components.
Once the fuse has blown, it must be replaced with a new one having the same characteristics. Therefore, it is essential to always select fuses with appropriate rated values for both current and voltage, and to respect the required blow characteristic for the specific application.
It is important to emphasise that a correctly rated fuse not only protects the circuit but also prevents more extensive damage from spreading to the power source or other connected modules.
Practical applications of radial PCB fuses
Radial PCB fuses are extremely versatile and used in a wide variety of electrical and electronic applications. Thanks to their compact design and robustness, they can be found in the following environments:
- Household appliances: Used in coffee makers, microwave ovens, refrigerators, washing machines, and air conditioning systems, where currents may experience momentary surges or overheating due to mechanical failures.
- Power supplies: These sensitive devices require fuses capable of acting quickly to prevent overloads damaging internal components such as transformers or rectifiers.
- LED lighting: Protection against transient currents is essential in LED strips, lamps, and controllers, especially in industrial or urban environments with voltage fluctuations.
- Consumer electronics: Televisions, audio equipment, media players, routers, and computers also incorporate these fuses in their primary circuits.
- Industrial control systems: PLCs, automation systems, and electrical panels include radial fuses to ensure operational continuity in demanding environments.
- Measuring instruments: Multimeters, lab power supplies, and testing equipment are often protected with precise TR5 fuses.
How to choose the right radial fuse
Choosing the correct radial PCB fuse goes beyond simple physical fit. Several parameters must be considered to ensure effective and lasting protection:
- Rated current value: Choose a fuse capable of carrying the circuit’s normal current without blowing due to minor fluctuations.
- Operating voltage: Ensure the fuse has a margin above the maximum line voltage to avoid premature degradation.
- Blow characteristic type: Fast-acting (F) models are ideal for sensitive components like semiconductors. Slow-blow (T) models tolerate startup surges from motors or transformers.
- Thermal environment: Ambient temperature affects fuse behaviour. In hot or confined environments, safety margins should be planned.
- Physical compatibility: Check fuse size, pin spacing (such as 5.08 mm for TR5 format), and available height on the PCB.
- Replacement and accessibility: Consider whether the fuse will be in an easily accessible area for maintenance or used in sealed devices.
Product range available at Electronica Embajadores
Electronica Embajadores’ online catalogue offers a wide range of radial PCB fuse models, including:
- Fast-acting fuses: From 63 mA to 2 A, ideal for protecting delicate components.
- Time-delay fuses: From 100 mA to 6.3 A, recommended for loads with transient startup surges.
- TR5 models: The most common format for radial PCB fuses, with a standard 5.08 mm spacing between terminals.
- Compact versions: Miniature body fuses for applications where space is critical.
Each product is accompanied by its datasheet, including I-t (current-time) curves, tolerances, trip conditions, and international certifications.
Renowned manufacturers and quality assurance
At Electronica Embajadores, we collaborate with internationally recognised brands known for their reliability and commitment to quality. Notable manufacturers in our radial PCB fuse section include:
- Littelfuse: A leader in electronic protection solutions with decades of innovation in miniature and micro-fuse technology.
- Schurter: Swiss brand specialising in precision electronic components with strict European quality standards.
- Fuzetec and Bel Fuse: Offering a wide range of thermal and electrical protection models for consumer and industrial use.
All products have UL, VDE, CSA, or IEC certifications, ensuring compliance with international electrical standards. Additionally, Electronica Embajadores maintains regular stock and provides restocking services for high-turnover items.
Conclusion
Radial PCB fuses are a key component for the safety and reliability of electronic circuits. Their correct installation, combined with an appropriate choice based on the system’s specific needs, guarantees effective protection against overloads, short circuits, and thermal risks.
At Electronica Embajadores, we offer a comprehensive range of radial PCB fuses, supported by expert technical assistance to help you select the ideal product for your project.
For any inquiries, please do not hesitate to contact our sales or technical team, available to answer your questions and advise on the best protection solution for your electronic circuits.
