Solar Fuses for High-Amp PV Systems

Cooper Bussmann PVS-R solar fuse The new Cooper Bussmann PVS-R solar fuse provides high amp ratings with the required fast-acting response to low PV DC faults. The PVS-R fuse is the first fuse of its kind to achieve a UL 2579 listing for “Low-voltage Fuses—Fuses for Photovoltaic Systems.” With a dual 600Vac/dc rating, the PVS-R fuse is designed to meet the higher amperage levels of today’s larger solar power systems, while withstanding extreme high- and low-ambient temperatures, routine cycling, and opening under low-level fault current conditions. Typical competitive offerings provide only traditional time-delay fuses that are not well-suited for solar power system protection.

Unlike AC systems, the available short-circuit current in PV systems is limited and requires the over-current protective device to operate effectively on low levels of fault current. For this reason, Cooper Bussmann has conducted extensive research and development of fuses that are specifically designed and tested to address the unique needs of PV systems. Cooper Bussmann also provides time-current curves, which follow as close as possible to actual field applications. Available in ratings from 20 to 600 amps, the PVS-R fuse is well-suited for use in re-combiner boxes and DC safety switches that operate at higher current levels, but experience the same low-level fault current conditions as combiner boxes and PV strings and arrays.

Cooper Bussmann
www.cooperbussmann.com/PVS-R


Volume: Nov/Dec 2010