Bussmann FWP-100B 100A 500V High-Speed Semiconductor Fuse: Features, Specifications, and Applications
FWP-100B Bussmann 100A 500V High-Speed Semiconductor Fuse
Introduction and Core Highlights
The FWP-100B high-speed semiconductor protection fuse by Bussmann (Eaton) is engineered to deliver reliable overcurrent isolation for sensitive solid-state power devices. Featuring a robust bolted-tag design, this HRC fuse is rated for 500Vac/dc, providing low let-through energy to minimize catastrophic failures in power converters.
- Core Ratings: 100A | 500Vac / 500Vdc | 200kA interrupting rating (AC)
- Engineering Value: Low let-through energy reduces thermal stresses on downstream power semiconductors, simplifying heatsink and enclosure protection designs.
- Coordination Intent: Engineers can easily coordinate system protection by comparing the fuse clearing characteristics with the semiconductor’s short-circuit limit.
Download Official Datasheet (PDF)
Around the UVP: High-Speed Thermal Isolation
The core unique value proposition of the FWP-100B lies in its high-speed clearing performance combined with a robust bolting form factor. In power electronic designs, short circuits can escalate in microseconds. If a fault occurs in a diode or thyristor bridge, standard circuit breakers are too slow to react. This bolted-tag fuse bridges this gap by acting as a sacrificial link that vaporizes within milliseconds.
To understand its protection capability, one must analyze its the I²t rating. The clearing I²t value of 1600 A²s indicates the total thermal energy the fuse lets through before fully extinguishing the arc. You can think of this let-through energy like a floodgate. The lower the let-through, the narrower the gate opens, allowing only a harmless trickle of energy to reach the downstream component, preventing it from bursting under pressure. By keeping this rating low, this fuse shields delicate silicon wafers from thermal destruction.
Additionally, its high interrupting rating of 200kA at 500Vac ensures that the fuse can safely quench extremely high fault currents without explosive housing failures. This reliability is achieved through high-purity silica sand filler within the ceramic body, which quickly cools and deionizes the electric arc during clearing. This is critical for maintaining system safety under severe short-circuit conditions, showcasing how high-speed fuses control di/dt transients during critical faults.
Optimized Application Scenarios
- Variable Frequency Drives (VFDs): Protects incoming rectifier bridges and DC-bus components from catastrophic short-circuits.
- Solar Inverters: Ideal for protecting central inverter DC-link sections up to 500Vdc due to its dedicated DC rating.
- UPS Systems: Ensures fast isolation of battery-powered DC-to-AC inverter stages during component failure, preventing widespread fire hazards.
- Traction Rectifiers: Fits bolted rail terminals securely, resisting vibration while safeguarding heavy-duty thyristors.
The FWP-100B is the optimal high-speed protection choice for 500V sub-systems requiring ultra-fast 100A branch circuit overcurrent isolation.
Key Specifications Parameter Table
| FWP-100B Mechanical and Electrical Parameters | |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Bussmann (Eaton) |
| Rated Current (In) | 100 Amps |
| Rated Voltage (AC) | 500 Vac |
| Rated Voltage (DC) | 500 Vdc |
| Interrupting Rating (AC) | 200kA RMS Sym. |
| Interrupting Rating (DC) | 50kA |
| Melting I²t | 290 A²s |
| Clearing I²t (at 500Vac) | 1600 A²s |
| Watts Loss (at Rated Current) | Approximately 21W |
| Mounting Style | Bolted Tags (Blade Style) |
Engineer FAQ
Q1: How do I select a replacement fuse for this model based on a verified HRC fuse selection guide?
A1: When choosing a replacement, verify that the continuous current rating (100A), voltage ratings (500Vac/dc), mounting tags (bolted blade style), and clearing I²t (1600 A²s) match or are lower than the original system specifications to maintain coordinated protection. Refer to our HRC fuse selection guide for full details.
Q2: What is the difference between FWP-100A and FWP-100B?
A2: The FWP-100B features bolt-on tags specifically designed for North American mounting configurations, ensuring a direct low-contact-resistance busbar connection, whereas other suffixes may represent different mounting types or terminal styles.
Q3: Can this high-speed fuse be used in pure DC applications up to 500V?
A3: Yes, this model is officially rated for up to 500Vdc with a 50kA interrupting rating, making it highly suitable for DC busways, battery racks, and solar power subsystems.
Closing Statement
This high-speed fuse stands as a cornerstone of electrical safety for modern power conversion systems. By securing low let-through energy and high interrupting capacities, this bolted-tag fuse empowers engineers to build highly resilient designs that survive the most demanding overcurrent faults.