EMC & Circuit Protection


the maximum operating voltage of the system. For converters handling higher DC voltages, like those in solar or battery storage systems, check that the fuse is DC-rated for safe arc suppression.


3. I²t value


This parameter measures the energy let-through during a fault. Semiconductor devices have specifi c I²t withstand ratings – ensure your chosen fuse’s let-through energy is below this limit.


4. Breaking capacity (interrupt rating) The fuse must safely interrupt the maximum prospective fault current in your system without explosion or damage. High-speed fuses often exceed 200kA interrupt ratings for industrial applications.


5. Time-current characteristics High-speed fuses are designed to blow quickly under short-circuit conditions but tolerate certain temporary overloads. Reviewing manufacturer curves ensures the fuse operates within your required protection window.


6. Physical form factor


Consider mounting style (bolted tags, blade terminals, cylindrical cartridge) and available space. A fuse that fi ts your electrical performance needs but not your enclosure dimensions is no use in practice.


7. Operating environment


High ambient temperatures can derate fuse performance; very low temperatures may change characteristics. Dust, moisture, and vibration can also impact reliability – consider your application’s conditions.


Application considerations in power converters Inverter stages


High-speed fuses are commonly installed at the DC link or AC output stage to protect IGBTs against sudden short circuits caused by switching anomalies or external load faults. DC/DC converters


In renewable and battery-based systems, the fuse must handle high inrush currents without nuisance blowing while still protecting against battery short circuits. Motor drives


Fuses safeguard thyristor or transistor stages from stalled-motor currents and power module failures.  UPS systems


Protection here is often dual-purpose: shielding semiconductors while maintaining service continuity for critical loads.


www.cieonline.co.uk


Selecting the wrong fuse type or rating can lead to repeated downtime, premature device wear or in the worst case, catastrophic converter failure.


   While it can be tempting to source semiconductor fuses directly from manufacturers or generic online marketplaces, semiconductor fuses are not “one-size-fi ts-all” components. A specialist distributor offers several advantages:


1. Technical expertise


Specialist distributors understand the nuances of semiconductor protection and can recommend fuses tailored to your converter’s topology, load profi le and fault scenarios.


2. Extensive product range


Stocking leading brands and multiple series, distributors provide access to the exact physical format and performance curve required, reducing the risk of last-minute design compromises.


3. Supply chain security With established relationships with manufacturers, you can secure genuine components, avoid counterfeits and provide batch traceability, essential for quality compliance in sectors like aerospace, medical or rail.


4. Customisation and value-added services


From pre-assembled fuse holders to kitting for production lines, distributors can streamline procurement and assembly.


5. Reduced downtime


Most distributors offer stockholding services, ensuring that urgent replacements can be delivered quickly which is critical when a power converter failure halts operations. Semiconductor fuses safeguard high- value components and ensure continuous operation. Choosing the right one requires understanding your system’s electrical characteristics, physical constraints and operating conditions.


By partnering with a knowledgeable distributor like GD Rectifi ers, buyers and engineers can benefi t from expert advice, fi eld experience, genuine parts and a streamline purchasing process. The result is a protection solution that not only meets technical requirements but also supports long-term reliability and operational effi ciency.


www.gdrectifi ers.co.uk Components in Electronics September 2025 17


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