Fuse Sizing Guide

Practical Application Information

This guide is a general recommendation and does not include
the many variables that can exist for specific situations such
as special local codes, unusual temperature or other operating
conditions, N.E.C. demand factors, conductor derating, etc.

Recommended U.L. Current Limiting Fuse Classes &

EDISON Fusegear Symbols:*
Time-Delay Type
Class L –LCL –600VAC or less: 601-6000A
Class RK1 –LENRK –250VAC or less: 6/10-600A
–LESRK –600VAC or less: 1/2-600A
Class RK5 –ECNR –250VAC or less: 1/10-600A
–ECSR –600VAC or less: 1/10-600A
Class J –JDL –600VAC or less: 1-600A
Class CC –HCTR –600VAC or less: 1/4-10A
Fast-Acting Type (Non/time-delay)
Class T –TJN –300VAC or less: 1-800A
–TJS –600VAC or less: 1-800A
Class L –LCU –600VAC or less: 601-6000A
Class RK1 –NCLR –250VAC or less: 1-600A
–SCLR –600VAC or less: 1-600A
Class J –JFL –600VAC or less: 1-600A
Class CC –HCLR –600VAC or less: 1/10-30A

*The fuse classes shown are U.L. Listed as “current limiting” with 200,000
RMS symmetrical amperes interrupting rating. Classes J and L are not
interchangeable with fuses having lower l.R.. Class R fuses require Class
R rejection fuse clips to prevent interchangeability with Classes H and K
fuses with lower interrupting rating. (N.E.C. 110-9 and 240-60b.)
Figure 1

1 Main Service Conductor Cable 4 Branch Circuit Fuse d) 150% of the nameplate current
Limiters (N.E.C. 240, 450-6): Size, No Motor Load rating of the largest continuous-duty
a) Select by cable size and mounting (N.E.C. 240-3, 220-3):* motor. Add to “a)” above.
terminal configurations required. a) 100% of non-continuous load. e) 125% of the nameplate current
2 Main Service Circuit *Do not exceed conductor ampacity. rating of other continuous duty motors.
Recommended fuses: LENRK, ECNR,
Fuses–Mixed Loads: NCLR, JDL, LCU, or LCL. Add to “a)” above.
a) Size fuses same as item 6. f) Recommended fuses: LENRK/LESRK,
5 Branch Circuit Fuse Size, No
3 Transformer Circuit Fuses Motor Load JDL, ECNR/ ECSR, LCU, LCL.
(N.E.C. 450-3b, 240-3, 240-21, (N.E.C. 240-3, -220-3):* *Do not exceed conductor ampacity.
384-16d, 430-72b Ex. 3, 4 & (c) 7 Feeder Circuit Fuse Size, 100%
a) 125% of continuous load. Fuse may be
as required):* Motor Load (N.E.C. 240-3, 220-
sized 100% when used with a continuous
a) PRIMARY FUSES: Size fuses not over
rated switch. Recom-mended fuses 10b, 430-24):*
125%. As exceptions exist, refer to the a) Determine non-continuous
same as 4.
appropriate N.E.C. paragraphs. motorload (N.E.C. 430-22a Ex. 1).
*Do not exceed conductor ampacity.
Recommended fuses: LESRK, ECSR, JDL, b) Determine load of A/C or
6 Feeder Circuit Fuse Size,
LCL+.*
Mixed Load refrigeration equipment (N.E.C. 440-3,
b) SECONDARY FUSES (Sum of (N.E.C. 220-10b, 240-3, 430-22a -5, -12). Add to “a)” above.
following): 125% of the continuous load Ex. 1, 430-24):* c)150% of nameplate current rating of
plus 100% of non-continuous load. Fuse a) 100% of non-continuous, non-motor the largest continuous duty motor. Add
size not to exceed 125% of transformer load plus 125% of continuous, non- to “a)” above.
secondary rated amps. RECOMMENDED motor load d)125% of the other continuous-duty
FUSES: LENRK, ECNR, NCLR, JDL or b) Determine non-continuous motor load motors. Add to “a)” above.
LCU. (N.E.C. 430-22a EX. Add to “a)” above.
*Fuse size must not exceed ampacity of
e)Recommended fuses: LENRK/LESRK,
conductors. Where selectivity is desired,
c) Determine A/C or refrigeration load. JDL, ECNR/ ECSR or LCL.
refer to EDISON selectivity methods. (N.E.C. 440-3b). Add to “a)” above. *Do not exceed conductor ampacity.

Z-106
Practical Application Information
Levels of Government regulations and ordinances, from Federal to
local, usually base acceptable safe performance and application of
fuses and circuit breakers on the National Electrical Code. The NEC
commonly refers proven safe performance to the Standards of
8 Branch Circuit Fuse Size, Individual Motor Load, Safety of Underwriters Laboratories, Inc. The NEC is sponsored by
With Fuse Overload Protection (No Starter the National Fire Protection Association.
Overload Relays): (N.E.C. 430-32, 430-36): Therefore, fuses manufactured to meet the same standards of
a) Motors with 1.15 Service Factor or temperature rise not U.L. testing and “Listing” for specific types are physically and
over 40 Degrees C., size fuses at not more than 125% of the electrically interchangeable, based on the standards, regardless
motor nameplate current rating. of brand.
b) Best protection is obtained by measuring motor running Fuses can be designed and manufactured to higher standards than
current and sizing fuses at 125% of measured the minimum standards required to pass U.L. testing to
current for normal motor operation. Reference be “Listed”.
to “Average Time/Current Curves” is recommended.
For all of the reasons above, Edison Fuses Inc. manufactures
d) Recommended Fuses: LENRK/LESRK, JDL, or ECNR/ECSR . fuses not only to meet industry standards, but also to reach the
9 Branch Circuit Fuse Size, Individual Motor Load, highest quality standards found in the industry.
With Starter Overload Relays
(N.E.C. 430-32, 430-52): National Electrical Code
a) For “back-up” N.E.C. overload, ground fault and short- The National Electrical Code (N.E.C.) is sponsored by the National
circuit protection size the fuses the same as (8 a, b) above, or Fire Protection Association. This Code is adopted as the MINIMUM
the next standard size larger. standard for public safety by the federal government, states,
counties, cities and many private organizations. Enforcement is
b) The fuse sizes in a) above may be increased as allowed by
usually the responsibility of Professional Electrical Inspectors
NEC references. Generally, dual element fuses should not
exceed 175% of motor nameplate F.L.A. and non-U.L. defined provided with enforcement authority.
time-delay fuses not more than 300%.
Fuse Ratings
c) Recommended fuses: LENRK/LESRK, JDL, ECNR/
ECSR or LCL.
10 Fuse Sizing for Individual Large Motors With
F.L.A. Above 480 Amps or Otherwise Require
Class L Fuses - (N.E.C. 430-52):

Application Tips
1. Size fuses as closely as practical to the ampacity of the
protected circuit components without the probability of
Fuses with an A-C voltage rating may be applied at system
unnecessary fuse opening from harmless, transient current
voltages below the fuse voltage rating, but not at voltages above
surges. This usually requires a choice between time-delay and
the fuse voltage rating. The other A-C fuse ratings remain the
non-time-delay fuses.
same at applied voltages below the fuse voltage rating.

2. Use Class R fuse clips with Class R fuses to prevent installation A-C rated fuses should not be applied in D-C voltage circuits
of fuses with less interrupting rating or current limitation. Class H unless D-C application ratings are provided by the fuse
fuse reducers cannot be used with Class R fuse clips. manufacturer. Except for some special purpose fuses, D-C ratings
3. When a conductor is oversized to prevent excess voltage drop, are not usually shown on fuse labels.
size the fuses for the ampacity of protected circuit components EDISON Time/Current Curves, Peak Let-Through Curves are based
instead of oversizing fuses for the larger conductor. on 60 Hertz A-C data.
The operating frequency (Hertz) will affect fuse characteristics in
Safety various ways.
Industry PUBLIC SAFETY standards that apply to overcurrent
Time/Current Curves will not shift and fuse ratings will not change
protection devices (OPD), fuses and circuit breakers, are intended
from 1-100 Hertz in normal applications. If ferrous hardware is
to apply to both types of devices. The use of these devices serves
used to mount the fuses, eddy current heating could alter the
public safety which includes all aspects of fuse or circuit breaker
ratings.
performance and dependability.
Above 100 Hertz, “skin effect” could alter the fuses’ rating
Any industry requirements that apply to fuses apply equally to
characteristics. This effect must be analyzed on an individual
circuit breakers. Industry standards do not intend any deliberate
application basis.
compromises for public safety.

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Practical Application Information
Fuse ratings, Cont.
Other characteristics shown on fuse labels such as “interrupting
rating”, “current limiting”, “time-delay”, “fast-acting” and Correction Factors for Edison Fast-Acting and Non-
Delay Fuses(1)Factors for Edison Fast-Acting and Non-
Correction
Underwriters Laboratories, Inc. (U.L.) Class are described
elsewhere. Delay Fuses(1)
Ambient Celsius Maximum Load Current
Fuse labels show “certification” or “listing” logo’s when applicable. Temperatures
Ambient Celsius (% of Rating)
Maximum Load Current
-20 to -40 93%
Such logo’s may be: Temperatures (% of Rating)
-19
-20toto-1
-40 90%
93%
• “U.L.” (U.L. “Listed”) zero to -1
24 86%
-19 to 90%
• “CSA” (Canadian Standards Association “certified”) 25 to to
zero 6024 80%
86%
61
25toto80
60 60%
80%
• (U.L. Recognized) 81
61toto100
80 45%
60%
Such logos mean that the fuse meets the performance standards
(1)
Fuses installed
81 to 100in an enclosure with a base loading
45% of 80% as required by the
National ElectricalinCode.
Fuses installed Contact Edison
an enclosure Fusesloading
with a base Inc. forofother
80%conditions.
as required by the
of these safety organizations.
(1)

National Electrical Code. Contact Edison Fuses Inc. for other conditions.
Some EDISON fuses, such as rectifier protection fuses, special Interrupting Rating (I.R.)
purpose fuses, etc., do not show safety organization logos
N.E.C. 110-9 requires that the interrupting rating of fuses and
because test standards do not exist, or logo’s are awaiting testing
breakers not be less than the maximum available short circuit
for newly established standards. In these cases, any necessary
current at their point-of-application as indicated by Figure 2.
additional information may be obtained from the manufacturer.
Circuits where fuses and breakers are installed may be capable of
Ambient Fuse De-Rating... thousands of amperes of short circuit current flow during a short
circuit condition. When fuses or breakers are installed where the
Fuses designed to U.S.A. standards are tested for proper ampere
value of short circuit current flow may exceed the interrupting rating
ratings at 25 degrees Centigrade. Since fuses operate by heat
of the devices, a very serious safety hazard may exist. A flow of
melting fuse elements, the ampere ratings can change for higher
short circuit current in excess of the device interrupting rating may
or lower ambient temperature (temperature of air around an
cause only a mild device rupture during device opening or a violent
enclosure in which fuses are installed). The following information
explosion depending on the value of excess short circuit
is provided to choose fuses with different ampere ratings for
current flow.
unusually highFactors
Correction or low ambient temperatures.
for Edison Dual-Element ECNR/
ECSR and LENRK/LESRK
Correction Fuses(1) Dual-Element
Factors for Edison (See next column)
ECNR/
ECSR and LENRK/LESRK Fuses
Ambient Carrying(1)Capacity % of
(See next column)
Temperatures
Ambient of Fuse inCapacity
Carrying Opening
% of
°C
Temperatures°F %ofof Ratin
Fuse in ime
Opening
-60
°C -76
°F 120
% of Ratin 135
ime
-40
-60 -40
-76 117
120 130
135
-20
-40 --40
4 113
117 125
130
0-20 32
-4 108
113 120
125
20
0 68*
32 103*
108 105
120
25
20 77*
68* 100*
103* 100
105
30
25 86*
77* 98*
100* 95
100
40
30 104*
86* 95*
98* 85
95
60
40 140
104* 85
95* 70
85
80
60 176
140 75
85 50
70
100
80 212
176 60
75 35
50
*No correction
100 needed
212 with this range. 60 35
*No correction needed with this range.

Figure 2

Overcurrent
The term “overcurrent” refers to abnormal current flow higher than
the normal value of current flow in an electrical circuit. Uncorrected
“overcurrent” can cause serious safety hazards and costly damage to
electrical equipment and property.

Z-108
Practical Application Information

overcurrent, Cont.
Fuses and most circuit breakers are installed in electrical circuits
to open and stop the flow of “overcurrent”.
Fuses and typical circuit breakers respond and open for both low
and high values of overcurrent flow. “Limiters” and “magnetic
only” circuit breakers respond only to high values of
overcurrent flow.
There are three basic types of current flow in an electrical circuit:
1. Normal intended current flow to operate electrical equipment.
2. Abnormal overcurrent flow with a value of up to 10 times
normal current flow. This is known as an “overload”.
3. Abnormal overcurrent flow with a value more than 10 times the
normal current flow is known as “short-circuit” or “fault”
current flow.
Unless otherwise noted, current (amperes) and voltage (volts) are
alternating current/voltage RMS values as read on an ammeter or
voltmeter. The alternating frequency is 60 HZ (cycles per second).
Impedance is a combination of resistance and inductive reactance
and is expressed in units of ohms.
Overcurrent Protection Device Symbols...

Ohm’s Law is used to find the value of normal current flow in the
Figure 4
simple circuit illustration. (See Figure 3)
Figure 4 is identical to Figure 3 except a short-circuit fault has been
shown that by-passes the impedance of the load of 10 ohms. The
only impedance remaining to oppose the flow of current is 0.02
ohms which is the total impedance of the conductors. Short-circuit
current now flows around the load as shown by the arrow in the
heavy line.
The value of short-circuit current flow for this simple illustration is
determined by using Ohm’s Law:
ISC = VOLTS
TOTAL OHMS
ISC = 480 = 24,000 amperes

(0.02)
There are many specific ways that short-circuits (faults) may occur.
Figure 3 Some of the more common are accidents, carelessness in the
misuse of “fish tape”, tools, etc., crossed phases, contamination,
Z-109
Practical Application Information

Overcurrent Protection Devices...Fuses

and Circuit Breakers Breaker “Off”
Fuses contain an element that acts like a conductor for the normal
current flow. The element’s ability to sense abnormal current is
the basis for the amp rating of the fuse. When an overcurrent
develops that exceeds the fuse rating, heat builds up inside the
fuse and melts or “opens” the element. Once the element is
melted and the arc extinguished, current flow stops.
When the overload or fault condition that caused the fuse to open
is corrected, a proper replacement fuse restores the original
dependable protection.

Fuse showing
element during normal
operation Summary
It is obviously necessary to rate fuses and circuit breakers according
Element intact to their ability to safely interrupt a given MAXlMUM value of short-
circuit current flow.

Fuse showing element Standard U.L. Fuse Interrupting Ratings*

melted by an Class H 10,000
overcurrent
Class K 50,000, 100,000 or 200,000
Classes J, L, R, T, and CC 200,000
Element melted Class G 100,000

Standard U.L. Circuit Breaker

Interrupting Ratings*
5,000 42,000
Circuit Breakers contain a resettable latch which acts like an
7,500 50,000
“ON-OFF” switch for the normal current flow. When abnormal 10,000 65,000
current flows through the circuit breaker, the latch trips, and the 14,000 85,000
indicator on the outside of the circuit breaker moves into the 18,000 100,000
“OFF” position. Once the overcurrent problem has been corrected, 22,000 125,000
25,000 150,000
the indicator lever can be reset into the “ON” position, which
30,000 200,000
simultaneously resets the latch inside the circuit breaker. 35,000
*Contact manufacturer for availability of ratings.
Figure55
Figure
A specific fuse or breaker may be submitted for testing at one of
the standard levels shown in Figure 5. The successful product
Breaker “On” testing results in “listing” of the product as having an “interrupting
rating” (I.R.) at the level of test current. In other words, when a
fuse or circuit breaker will safely interrupt developed energy at
a specific value of short-circuit current, say 200,000 Irms, the
product manufacturer may place a UL logo and words similar to
“Interrupting Rating 200,000 Amps A-C” on the product label. The
product will interrupt any value of fault current up to 200,000 Irms
MAXIMUM.
When fuses and circuit breakers are properly applied within their
interrupting rating, as required by N.E.C. 110-9, device opening
during short-circuit current flow generates high levels of energy
inside the devices.

Z-110
 Practical Application Information

EDISON current limiting fuses are designed to retain their high It may be confusing that most industry references to shortcircuit
interrupting rating in normal use until caused to open and are then current and short-circuit ratings are in “RMS symmetrical amperes”
replaced with a new fuse. (Irms), but this is for convenience and common understanding that
the “worse case” requirements imposed by “asymmetrical” values
Magnitude of Available are “built-in” for U.L. testing.
Short-Circuit Current Figure 7 shows the relationship between two cycles of symmetrical
Figure 6 shows maximum values of available short-circuit current and asymmetrical current at the typical “worst case” power system
at the secondary terminals of some typical sizes of building main Asymmetry Factor of 2.3. When considering that current limiting
service transformers. Note, the increased values of amperes when fuses, in sizes 3000A or less, will interrupt the current shown in
three single-phase transformers are connected for three-phase Figure 7 before the peak of the first one-half cycle, this subject is of
operation. For this situation, the percent internal impedance (%Z) little value unless non-limiting devices are specified.
of the three transformers must be matched. The three-phase %Z is
the same as for one of the single transformers. Fuse Current Limitation
Refer to Figure 8 for a description of fuse current limitation. The
Transformer System Voltage LENRK 600 fuse limitation indicated by the small hatched area is
KVA Single-Phase Three-Phase Three-Phase
Size 120/240V 120/208V 277/480V
compared to two cycles of fault current flow as indicated by the
37-1/2 18,000 A. dashed line.
50 22,000 A. Figure 8
100 44,000 A. 18,000 A. 8,000 A.
250 82,000 A. 40,000 A. 18,000 A.
333 98,000 A.
500 184,000 A. 82,000 A. 35,000 A.
750 – 42,000 A. 18,000 A.
750* – 122,000 A. 53,000 A.
1000 – 56,000 A. 24,000 A.
1000* – 132,000 A. 57,000 A.
*Three-single-phase transformers.
Figure
Figure 66

The following equation was used to calculate Figure 6 values:

I = 100% X Transformer secondary
%Z full load amps
Refer to Table Z page Z-124 for typical lowest transformer percent Figure 7
impedance (%Z) used to find short circuit values.
Many congested commercial building areas have underground low
voltage network systems for multiple building service connections.
Available fault current may approach 200,000 Irms.
The fault current values will be reduced by utility KVA capability
and impedance in a power distribution system.

Symmetrical and Asymmetrical Short-

Circuit Current
When correctly selected overcurrent protection devices are used
there is no practical reason for an electrical power system designer
to be concerned about values of asymmetrical short-circuit
amperes available unless there is reason to believe that a system
has a ratio of inductive reactance to resistance higher than U.L.
test values for equipment short circuit ratings, circuit breaker or
Short-Circuit Protection Comparison of EDISON LENRK 600
current limiting fuses interrupting ratings
Current Limiting Fuses vs. Non/Limiting Overcurrent Protection
Current limiting fuse manufacturers typically test directly across a Devices with 50,000 RMS Amperes Short-Circuit Current Available.
fuse at 460,000 peak asymmetrical amperes for a U.L. interrupting
rating listing at 200,000 RMS symmetrical amperes. A designer
may want to refer to U.L. Standard 489 for testing of molded case
circuit breakers..
Z-111
Practical Application Information

FUSE CURRENT LIMITATION, Cont.

Fault current flow through conducting paths to a fault location Maximum Allowable U.L. Let-Through Values for Fuses
at 100,000 RMS Symmetrical Amperes*
produces two major potentially damaging effects to equipment,
components and conductors: U.L. Fuse U.L. Let-Through
a) Magnetic fields between conductors produce magnetic stress Maximum
Fuse Allowable
Rating, U.L. Let-Through Values for Fuses
(physical force). Physical bracing is required with the extent (cost) atClass
100,000 RMS Symmetrical Amperes*
Amperes Ip x 103 I2t x 103
CC 30 6 5
dependent on the magnitude of fault current allowed to flow. Force U.L. Fuse
30 U.L. Let-Through 7
7.5
varies directly with the square of the maximum peak (Ip) current Fuse Rating,
60 10 30
during the first one-half cycle. Class Amperes
100 Ip x 103
14 I2t x 103
80
J
CC 30
200 6
20 5
300
b) Fault current flow causes thermal stress (excess heat) in
30
400 7.5
30 7
1,100
conducting paths dependent on the magnitude of RMS (Irms) or
60
600 10
45 30
2,500
effective (le) current squared multiplied by the time of current flow 100
30 14
10 80
10
(I2t). J
200
60 20
12 300
40
In the Figure 8 (see page Z-111) illustration, the LENRK 600 fuses 400
100 30
16 1,100
100
RK1
reduce the physical magnetic force between conductors to about 600
200 45
22 2,500
400
30
400 10
35 10
1,200
8% of that allowed by a non-limiting device.
60
600 12
50 40
3,000
The LENRK 600 fuses reduce I2t thermal stress reference over 100
30 16
11 100
50
RK1
14,500% less than allowed by a non-limiting device. 200
60 22
21 400
200
400
100 35
25 1,200
500
Any potentially damaging arcing at the fault location will also be RK5
600
200 50
40 3,000
1,600
reduced. 30 11 50
400 60 5,000
Specifying EDISON current limiting fuses provides excellent 60
600 21
80 200
10,000
protection by reducing short-circuit current energy allowed to flow RK5
100
800 25
80 500
10,000
to a fault. Thus, the requirements of NEC 110-10 and 240-1 can be 200
1200 40
80 1,600
12,000
met. 400
1600 60
100 5,000
22,000
600
2000 80
120 10,000
35,000
U.L. provides a service to equipment manufacturers for listing L 800
2500 80
165 10,000
75,000
short-circuit current ratings at any of the optional maximum values 1200
3000 80
175 12,000
100,000
shown in Figure 9. 1600
4000 100
220 22,000
150,000
2000
5000 –120 35,000
350,000
This provides a means for power system designers to specify
L 2500
6000 –165 75,000
350,000
minimum short-circuit ratings to meet N.E.C. 110-10. 3000 fuses at 50,000, 100,000
175 and 200,000 RMS100,000
*U.L. tests current limiting symmet-
rical amperes. 4000 220 150,000
U.L. Short-Circuit Ratings for Electrical 5000 Figure 10
10
– 350,000
Figure
Equipment 6000 – 350,000
Standard U.L. Equipment Short-Circuit Current *U.L. tests current limiting fuses at 50,000, 100,000 and 200,000 RMS symmet-
The term “Equipment” includes switchboards, panelboards, motor U.L.
Ratings in RMs Amperes* rical testing
amperes.and listing of equipment protected by current limiting
control centers, busway and motor controllers.
14,000 65,000 fuses is done with fuses that have the10
same current limiting
18,000 75,000 Figure
22,000 performance as the maximum allowable peak let-through current when
Standard U.L. Equipment Short-Circuit85,000
Current
25,000 Ratings in RMs Amperes* 100,000 any fuse manufacturer submits current limiting fuses for testing and
30,000
14,000 125,000
65,000 listing. The result is that any brand of U.L. Iisted fuses may be used
35,000
18,000 150,000
75,000
42,000 200,000 to protect U.L. short-circuit rated equipment within the specified limit
22,000 85,000
50,000
25,000 100,000 of short-circuit rating.
*Contact manufacturer for availability of ratings.
30,000 125,000
35,000 Figure 9 150,000
42,000 200,000
50,000
*Contact manufacturer for availability of ratings.
Figure
Figure 99

Z-112
 Practical Application Information

Open

Fault

Figure 11 Figure 12
Selectivity “I2tMelting Energy” is a reference to the value of “I2t Energy”
A non-selectively designed system of overcurrent protection required to melt the link(s) of Fuse A. “I2t” is not an energy value,
devices is shown in Figure 11. When a building power distribution but a convenient reference used for comparison purposes. Actual
system is designed without selectivity, potential safety hazards energy would be “I2Rt” where “R” is resistance. The value of
and costly power outages may result. A system with designed resistance is so low compared to the other two values that it is
selectivity will assure that only the overcurrent protection device ignored for convenience.
for a faulted circuit will open to limit a power outage to the “I2t Clearing Energy” is a reference to the amount of energy that
faulted circuit. Fuse B allows to build up in the form of heat during Fuse B “Total
Refer to Figure 12 for an illustration of the use of “I2t” to Clearing Time.”
determine fuse selectivity for short-circuit conditions. Figure 12 shows an obvious conclusion that if the “I2t Clearing
Energy from fault current flow builds up heat inside fuses, Energy” of Fuse B is less than the “I2t Melting Energy” of the
breakers and conductors as the current flows to a fault location in link(s) of Fuse A then Fuse A will not open when a fault on the load
a system. side of Fuse B occurs.

“Selectivity Ratio Guide” For Current Limiting Fuses*

Divide the amps rating of a load-side fuse into the amps rating of the line-side fuse. If the ratio is “Equal to or larger than” the table ratio, then
a fault on the load side of the load-side fuse will cause the load-side fuse ONLY to open to provide selectivity.
Circuit Load-Side Fuse
Current Rating 601-6000A 0-600A 601-6000A 0-600A 0-1200A 0-600A 0-60A
Type Time- Dual-Element Fast-Acting Fast-Acting Time-
Delay Time-Delay Delay
Class L RK1 J** RK5 L RK1 T J G
Edison LCL LENRK JDL ECNR LCU NCLR TJN JFL SEC
Symbol LESRK ECSR SCLR TJS
601 to Time- L LCL 2:1 2:1 2:1 4:1 2:1 2:1 2:1 2:1 N/A
6000A Delay
RK1 LENRK – 2:1 2:1 8:1 – 3:1 3:1 3:1 4:1
LESRK
0 Dual
to Ele- J JDL** – 2:1 2:1 8:1 – 3:1 3:1 3:1 4:1
600A ment RK5 ECNR – 1.5:1 1.5:1 2:1 – 1.5:1 1.5:1 1.5:1 1.5:1
Line-Side Fuse

ECSR
601 to L LCU 2:1 2:1 2:1 6:1 2:1 2:1 2:1 2:1 N/A
6000A
0 to Fast- RK1 NCLR – 3:1 3:1 8:1 – 3:1 3:1 3:1 4:1
600A Acting SCLR
0 to T TJN – 3:1 3:1 8:1 – 3:1 3:1 3:1 4:1
1200A TJS
0 to J JFL – 2:1 2:1 8:1 – 3:1 3:1 3:1 4:1
600A
0 to Time- G SEC – 3:1 3:1 4:1 – 2:1 2:1 2:1 2:1
60A Delay
Note: At some values of fault current, specified ratios may be lowered to permit closer fuse sizing. Plot fuse curves or consult with Edison Fusegear.
**General Notes: Ratios given in this Table apply only to Edison fuses. When fuses are within the same case size, consult Edison Fusegear.
*Consult Edison Fusegear for latest data.
Z-113
Practical Application Information

Cable Limiter Application

Cable Limiters have internal construction like fast-acting, current B. Multiple Cables for Individual Loads
limiting fuses and have 200,000 A.l.R. Unlike fuses, Cable For multiple cables a line-to-ground fault will open a single Cable
Limiters are designed to provide short-circuit protection only. Limiter so that power is maintained to the remaining services.
The lack of typical fuse overload characteristics is desirable for the Damage is minimized, power revenue continues, maintenance time
intended applications. “Average Time/Current Curves” and “Current is reduced and customer agitation is minimized.
Limitation Curves” are available. Application Tips:
The most common applications are for multiple cables connected Copper cable limiters should only be used with copper cable and
between a main transformer secondary and a single building load aluminum cable limiters with aluminum cable.
or to several individual building loads. (Figure 1 see page Z-106).
Cable Limiters with hollow tube crimp terminations require the use
Cable Limiters provide short-circuit protection for each cable. The
of correct crimp die sizes. Die size information for common tool
benefits are: (1) Prevention of extensive damage; (2) Isolation
brands is provided with EDISON Limiters.
of a faulted cable to prevent a total power outage; (3) Reduction
of the potential for extensive costs resulting from damage and Heat shrinkable insulation tubing OR (not both together) blown
losses from power outages. Electric utilities commonly apply limiter indicators for Limiter installation is available. Contact your
Cable Limiters in large power distribution networks to reduce the EDISON Distributor.
potential for widespread power outage and for cables that serve When analyzing Cable Limiter performance, keep in mind that fault
several individual building services from one transformer. current divides in parallel paths.
Unlike fuses which are sized based on current, cable limiters are EDISON high quality Cable Limiters provide designers with a low
sized relative to the size of the cable. They are available for a wide cost means of improving the safety, performance and practicality of
range of cable sizes and mounting terminations in voltage ratings an all-EDISON protected system.
of 250 volts AC or less and 600 volts AC or less.
Class L Fuse Application
Application Considerations Selecting Fuse Type and Size
A. Multiple-Cable-Per-Phase Class L fuses are commonly installed in “bolted-pressure contact”
The Figure 1, (see page Z-106) one-line diagram shows an switches in switch ratings 800 amperes and larger. Switches are
illustration of paralleled cables in one phase of a three-phase usually installed with the capability of 100% continuous duty per
system. The first cable limiter will open to isolate the faulted cable U.L. 977 temperature limits. These switches are usually U.L. Iisted
allowing power service to continue uninterrupted. It is necessary to for 200,000 RMS symmetrical amperes (Irms) short-circuit rating.
oversize cables so that the loss of one will not cause overloading of The specification of EDISON LCU fast-acting fuses is recommended
the remaining cables. whenever it is suitable to benefit from superior current limitation.
Normally, multiple-cables-per-phase installations have a cable For any Class L fuse application it is a good engineering practice
limiter at each end of each conductor. to select and size fuses for consideration of the transient motor
A phase-to-phase or a three-phase cable fault may cause the starting current portion of a mixed load. This practice will reduce
isolation of one cable in two or all three phases. This is acceptable the possibility of fuse opening for normal system operation without
for the intended application of Cable Limiters. excessive fuse oversizing.
When Cable Limiters are applied for two-cables-per-phase, limiters
are usually installed at the “line end” of each cable only–since both Fuse Percent
limiters will open for a fault in one cable. An undesirable phase Fuse Amps Motor
Symbol(1) Rating F.L.A.*
power outage occurs, but the limiters are intended to reduce
LCU 800 35%
potential extensive damage and the time/cost of repair. For three LCL 800 50%
or more cables-per-phase, only line-to-ground faulted cables are LCU 1200 50%
expected to be isolated. LCL 1200 55%
LCU 1600 60%
During scheduled routine power outages for normal system LCL 1600 60%
maintenance, Cable Limiters are checked for opening to indicate a LCU 2000 60%
cable fault that needs to be repaired. LCL 2000 65%
LCU 3000 60%
Cable Limiters are usually selective with both utility transformer
LCL 3000 65%
primary overcurrent protection devices and building main devices. (1)
LCU fast-acting; LCL time-delay.
However, it is a good practice to check selectivity. *Percent of total mixed load.
Figure 15
Figure 15

Z-114
 Practical Application Information

class l fuse application, Cont. CURRENT LIMITATION CURVES

Figure 15 (see page Z-114) is a guide for maximum motor Full Load LCL Class L Fuses+
Amps percentage of a 100% mixed load on the fuses shown to 400,000
B
provide an 8 seconds or more delay to allow all motors to start at the 300,000 6,000
5,000

INSTANTANEOUS PEAK LET-THRU CURRENT IN AMPS

same time. Reduced fuse loading and/or the load operation diversity 200,000 4,000
3,000
factor will increase the fuse operation time. Non-typical load/system 2,500
operation may reduce the fuse operation time. 100,000
2,000
1,600
80,000 1,200
To determine the operating time of any LCU or LCL fuse with mixed 800
60,000
load use the following equation. (Apply load diversity, if any, before 601
40,000

AMPERE
using the equation). This equation was used to find Figure 15

RATING
30,000
(see page Z-114) motor load percentages for the fuse operating
20,000
time indicated.
ITL = [(MT x 6) + (FT - MT)] 1.1 10,000

Where: ITL = Total fuse motor and non-motor load. 8,000

6,000
MT = Motor total F.L.A..
4,000
FT = Fuse total mixed load. 3,000
A
1.1 = Tolerance factor. 2,000

Refer to a LCU or LCL “Average Time/Current Curves” to find the

fuse operating time using “ITL’’ amperes. 1,000

30,000
1,000

2,000

3,000
4,000

6,000
8,000
10,000

20,000

40,000

60,000
80,000
100,000

200,000
16,000

31,000
EDISON LCL time-delay fuses are recommended ahead of 100%
motor loads, either a group of motors or a large individual motor RMS SYMMETRICAL CURRENTS IN AMPERES
A–B=ASYMMETRICAL AVAILABLE PEAK (2.3 X SYMM RMS AMPS)
circuit. When the starting diversity of a group of motors or the time/
current starting characteristics of a large individual motor are not +Contact Edison Fusegear for latest data. Figure 16
known, an estimate can be made by multiplying either the total motor
mentioned above. The National Electrical Code allows the use of either time-
nameplate current of a group or nameplate current of an individual
delay or fast acting (non-delay) fuses for both sides of a transformer with a
motor by 1.5 to determine fuse sizing. Unusual motor operating
primary rating 600 volts or less. Check Code requirements for all applications,
conditions may require larger fuses.
but it is generally always best to use EDISON dual-element fuses in the
Application for UL Equipment Short-Circuit primary circuit sized as indicated on page A1. Secondary fuse types may be
Current Ratings selected for the type load (inductive or non-inductive) but a practical “rule of
EDISON LCU and LCL Class L fuses provide excellent short circuit thumb” is to use dual-element type fuses whenever possible.
protection while providing electrical power system designers an The sizing recommendation above is normal recommendation. Check the
opportunity to reduce cost and obtain engineered protection.
inrush characteristics of the transformer being installed to insure proper
For example, Figure 1(see page Z-106) motor control center (MCC) application.
requires a U.L. marked Irms short-circuit current rating “equal to or
greater than” the maximum available fault current calculated. Class R (RK) Fuse Application
The designer has a choice to reduce the MCC short-circuit rating and There is occasional, understandable confusion about designing, specifying
cost because of the current limiting ability of EDISON fuses. Refer to and using Class R (RK) fuses. This is usually because of the availability
Figure 16. of three distinctly different performance fuses that are physically
To interpret Figure 16, first locate the MCC available Irms short- interchangeable.
circuit current of 31,000 amperes (maximum calculated) on the The three types are:
horizontal current scale. From that point follow the dashed reference LENRK/LESRK Class RK1, dual element, time-delay.
lines back to the same scale and read a value of about 16,000
NCLR/SCLR Class RK1, fast-acting (no inherent delay).
“effective let-through amperes” (le). The MCC Irms U.L. short-circuit
rating may be specified to be no less than 22,000 Irms, which is the ECNR/ECSR Class RK5, dual-element, time-delay.
next standard U.L. rating above 16,000 le. Current Limitation Comparison
Application for Transformer Circuits Figure 17 (see page Z-116) shows comparison of a Class RK1 time-delay
fuse (LESRK 200) and a Class RK5 time-delay fuse (ECSR 200). The curve
Specify EDISON time-delay type fuses ONLY for 600 volts or less for a Class RK1 fast-acting fuse (SCLR 200) is not shown because the curve
transformer primary circuits AND select an adequate fuse delay almost duplicates the LESRK 200 curve.
to prevent unnecessary fuse opening. When specific transformer
effective magnetizing inrush amperes and duration are known, refer The interpretation of Figure 17 (see page Z-116) is the same as for the Figure
to an “Average Time/Current Curves” to select fuse amps rating. 16. Note the value of the LESRK 200 fuse (Class RK1, time-delay) Ie is about
When this information is not available, an estimate can be made by 5,700 and the value for the ECSR 200 fuse (Class RK5, time-delay) is about
selecting a fuse delay 0.1 second or longer at a current 12 times the 9,500. For the same fault current the le for a SCLR 200 fuse (Class RK1, fast-
transformer primary full load amperes from the appropriate curve acting) is about 5,500.

Z-115
Practical Application Information
CURRENT LIMITATION COMPARISON, Cont.
The RK1 fuses shown have a current limitation advantage of up to
40% over the RK5 fuse. This percentage will vary for different fuse for fuse operating times of about 0.35 seconds and longer. The
amps ratings. The current limitation of Class RK1 fast-acting fuses difference between the LESRK and ECSR curves for time less than
(NCLR/SCLR) is somewhat greater in all sizes than Class RK1 0.35 seconds is an indication of the greater current limitation for
time-delay fuses (LENRK/LESRK). an LESRK fuse.

“Peak Let-Through Amps” (Ip) of current limiting fuses is Motor Overload (Running) Protection
sometimes of concern for typical power system design. Reference Class R (RK) time-delay fuses (Both RK1 and RK5) are recognized
to this value is helpful to compare the protection ability of by the N.E.C. for use as primary motor overload (running)
mechanical, non-limiting devices. protection. Refer to N.E.C. 430-36.
When EDISON LENRK/LESRK or ECNR/ECSR fuses are used for
CURRENT LIMITATION CURVES primary motor overload protection, it is recommended that the
Comparison of Classes RK1 and RK5 Fuses+ fuses be sized as closely as practical to the actual measured motor
400,000
B amperes for normal motor operation. Otherwise, fuse sizing for
300,000 primary overload protection is acceptable by the N.E.C. when
INSTANTANEOUS PEAK LET-THRU CURRENT IN AMPS

200,000
sized for not more than 125% of the motor nameplate F.L.A. for
motors with a Service Factor not less than 1.15 or motors with a
100,000 temperature rise not over 40 Degrees Celsius. For all other motors
80,000 the fuses shall not be sized over 115%. This applies to typical
60,000 ECSR motors in typical applications. Special motors or applications
50,000 200
40,000 (RK5) require additional analysis.
30,000
LESRK
20,000 200
(RK1)
AVERAGE TIME/CURRENT CURVES
10,000
8,000
Comparison of Classes RK1 and RK5 Fuses+
30
6,000
5,000 20
4,000 LESRK 200
3,000 (RK1)
10
A 8
2,000
6

4
1,000 SCLR 200
3
1,000

2,000

3,000
4,000
5,000
6,000
8,000
10,000

20,000

30,000
40,000
50,000
60,000
80,000
100,000

200,000

(RK1)
2

AVAILABLE SHORT-CIRCUIT CURRENT

TIME IN SECONDS

(RMS SYMMETRICAL AMPERES) 1

.8
.6
+Contact Edison Fusegear for latest data. Figure 17
Figure 17 shows an Ip value of 13,000 amperes for the LESRK .4
.3
200 and a value 22,000 amperes for the ECSR 200. To compare
.2
with a non-limiting device, start at the 27,300 Irms current again ECSR 200
(RK5)
and move vertically along the dashed line. Instead of stopping .1

at the ECSR curve, continue vertically to the line A-B. At this .08
.06
intersection, move horizontally left to the vertical Ip scale to read .04
about 65,000 peak amperes let-through for a 200 amp non- .03

limiting overcurrent protection device. This indicates an Ip of .02

about 500% more than a LESRK 200.

.01
The time/current curve of the LESRK 200 fuse (Figure 18)
1,000

2,000

3,000
4,000

6,000
8,000
10,000

20,000
100

200

300
400

600
800

indicates a time-delay of about 19 seconds to override the motor RMS SYMMETRICAL CURRENT IN AMPERES

starting current of 960 amps (160 F.L.A. motor). This allows the Figure
When motor controller thermal overload relays are used (as in 18
motor to operate normally without unnecessary fuse oversizing
Figure 19), time-delay fuses are recommended to be sized for
that may reduce protection. The SCLR 200 fast-acting fuses “back-up” motor overload protection for the motor controller
would not allow the motor to start, for the fuse would open in overload relays in the event that they fail to operate. Such
approximately 1.1 seconds due to inrush current. This condition fuse sizing will provide a reasonable degree of motor overload
would require SCLR oversizing to about 400 amps to allow the protection. It is desirable that the overload relays have an
motor to start. Such fuse oversizing not only reduces protection, opportunity to open first–which is a function of relay/
but increases equipment size and cost. fuse time/current curves comparison or an estimate at 10-15%
The ECSR 200 has about the same time-delay as the LESRK 200 operating time differential.

Reproduced with permission of Cooper Industries.

Z-116