What is the difference between BS1361 and BS1362?

BS1361 and BS1362 are two different British Standards that are related to electrical fuses. While they serve a similar purpose, there are significant differences between these two standards that determine their specific applications and usage. This article aims to explore and explain the dissimilarities between BS1361 and BS1362.

BS1361: Characteristics and Usage

BS1361 refers to the British Standard for Cartridge Fuses for Fixed Electrical Wiring Installations. This standard specifies the requirements for fuses used in fixed wiring systems in buildings. The main purpose of a BS1361 fuse is to protect the wiring from overcurrents which may occur due to short circuits or excessive loads.

BS1361 fuses are designed for use in large installations where high levels of current flow might be expected. These fuses have specific characteristics such as breaking capacities, time-current characteristics, and voltage ratings tailored for this particular application.

BS1362: Characteristics and Usage

On the other hand, BS1362 pertains to the British Standard for General Purpose Cartridge Fuses for Domestic and Similar Applications. Unlike BS1361, BS1362 covers fuses used in lower voltage and lower current scenarios, typically found in domestic household settings.

BS1362 fuses have different specifications compared to BS1361, including lower breaking capacities and different time-current characteristics. They are specifically designed to protect household appliances, devices, and electrical circuits from dangerous overloads and short circuits.

Distinguishing Features

One of the key distinguishing features between BS1361 and BS1362 fuses is their size. BS1361 fuses are typically larger as they are designed to handle higher currents, whereas BS1362 fuses are smaller and can be easily fitted into standard household fuse-holders.

Furthermore, the breaking capacity of BS1361 fuses is generally higher than that of BS1362 fuses due to the difference in the magnitude of potential faults. This means that BS1362 fuses may not be capable of interrupting large fault currents as effectively as BS1361 fuses.

Conclusion

In summary, BS1361 and BS1362 are two distinct British Standards governing different types of electrical fuses. While both standards serve the purpose of protecting electrical circuits, they are intended for use in different scenarios with varying current levels and characteristics of potential faults. It is crucial to select the appropriate fuse type based on the specific application to ensure proper protection and compliance with safety regulations.