Vishay Intertechnology, Inc. introduced the industry's first thermal fuses to offer high current capabilities up to 55 A and operation at temperatures up to + 160 °C for 1,000 hours without unexpected breakdown. AEC-Q200-tested, devices in the new Vishay Beyschlag HCTF series provide a safety interrupt of electrical power in high-current automotive applications.
In the case of excess heat in the range of the functioning temperature of +235 °C (± 15 K), HCTF thermal fuses open automatically and disconnect the circuit. Typical applications for HCTF devices include automotive power electronics that can be connected to steady battery power (B+ or terminal number 30), such as control units of fans and pumps for liquid engine cooling, inlet air control units, diesel pre-heaters, engine control units, ABS control units, and diesel heater plug relays.
The thermal fuses offer significantly higher current capabilities than other devices on the market, which are limited to 25 A at an ambient temperature of 23 °C or 12 A at an ambient temperature of 100 °C. The HCTF devices' robust solid-state design, in combination with low cold resistance of about 0.1 mΩ, guarantees extended reliability at high current loads and ambient temperatures.
Devices in the HCTF series are RoHS-compliant and offer a rated voltage of 24 V. HCTF 235 fuses can be assembled with electric resistance welding while HCTF 235 CP devices can be inserted into clamp terminations. In either case, both versions can be assembled with crimping units, as well.
Samples and production quantities of the new thermal fuses are available now, with a lead time of 14 weeks for larger orders. Pricing for U.S. delivery starts at $1.20 per piece for volume orders.
