E-T-A Circuit Breakers has recently introduced a modified automatically reset thermally activated circuit breaker – a ‘type 2’ version holding 100% rated current continuously in accordance with SAE J553. Acting as a MINI blade fuse replacement in MINI sized terminal blocks, the E-T-A 1620-2 will remain open after tripping in the event of overload or short circuit as long as power is applied to the terminals – only upon switching off the ignition or the load in question will the breaker be reset automatically.
E-T-A thermal circuit breakers can distinguish between temporary surges and genuine overloads. This is especially important for motors, lamp loads and external power circuits where discrimination is necessary between in-rush currents and normal operating conditions. Also, their performance is stable over time, unlike conventional fuses which can age, causing their blow characteristics to change, which may lead to nuisance blowing of fuses.
Technical realisation of the modified reset feature is by means of a heating element through which a minimum limited residual current will flow. The E-T-A 1620 MINI circuit breaker eliminates the need for spare fuses, and colour coding specified in DIN/ISO standards by current rating provides quick and easy identification to ensure correct plug-in placement in standard ISO 8820-3 Type F automotive blade-type fuse blocks – or the 1620 can be fitted to purpose designed E-T-A modular mounting bases.
Also available are the E-T-A 1620 type 1 which provides automatic reset, types 3 and 3H are reset by a manual reset button, with type 3H also offering a manual release facility which is useful during maintenance operations. Types 1 and 2 are for 12V DC applications, types 3 and 3H are for 24V applications. They are all available in standard current ratings between 5A and 30A.
Various test kits containing six blade fuse replacement circuit breakers with different current ratings are available for uses such as fault finding or as spares.
E-T-A Circuit Breakers
T: 01296 745 154
