3AB 1.6 Ceramic Fuse - Equivalent & Substitute Parts

Part Overview

The 3AB 1.6 is a ceramic cartridge fuse manufactured by Bel Fuse Inc., rated for 1.6 A at 250 V AC/DC with fast-blow response characteristics. This component is classified as obsolete, necessitating identification of active equivalent parts for continued system support and procurement. The substitute part maintains identical electrical and mechanical specifications while offering improved compliance status and active inventory availability.

Substiute Parts

3AB 1.6
Bel Fuse Inc.In Stock: 7853AB 1.6 Datasheet
3AB 1.6
Current Part
3AB 1.6-R
Bel Fuse Inc.In Stock: 19553AB 1.6-R Datasheet
3AB 1.6-R
Direct

Key Parameters

Parameter Value
Current Rating 1.6 A
Voltage Rating (AC) 250 V
Fuse Type Cartridge, Ceramic
Response Time Fast Blow
Package / Case 3AB, 3AG, 1/4" x 1-1/4" (6.35mm x 31.80mm)
Breaking Capacity 100 A @ Rated Voltage
Melting I²t 4.2
Operating Temperature Range -55°C to 125°C
Mounting Type Requires Holder

Substitute Part Grouping Explanation

The 3AB 1.6-R qualifies as a direct substitute for the 3AB 1.6 based on the following critical parameters:

  • Current Rating: Identical at 1.6 A
  • Voltage Rating: Identical at 250 V AC
  • Fuse Type & Response: Identical ceramic cartridge with fast-blow characteristics
  • Physical Dimensions: Identical 1/4" x 1-1/4" (6.35mm x 31.80mm) form factor
  • Breaking Capacity: Identical 100 A @ rated voltage
  • Melting I²t: Identical at 4.2
  • Operating Temperature: Identical -55°C to 125°C range
  • Mounting Interface: Identical holder requirement (3AB, 3AG)

The substitution is valid across all electrical and mechanical parameters specified for this product category.

Parameter Comparison

Parameter 3AB 1.6 (Obsolete) 3AB 1.6-R (Active)
Manufacturer Bel Fuse Inc. Bel Fuse Inc.
Current Rating (Amps) 1.6 A 1.6 A
Voltage Rating - AC 250 V 250 V
Fuse Type Cartridge, Ceramic Cartridge, Ceramic
Response Time Fast Blow Fast Blow
Package / Case 3AB, 3AG, 1/4" x 1-1/4" 3AB, 3AG, 1/4" x 1-1/4"
Breaking Capacity @ Rated Voltage 100 A 100 A
Melting I²t 4.2 4.2
Operating Temperature -55°C ~ 125°C -55°C ~ 125°C
DC Cold Resistance 0.084 Ohms 0.085 Ohms
Product Status Obsolete Active
RoHS Status RoHS non-compliant ROHS3 Compliant
Approval Agency CE, CSA, PSE, UL CE, CSA, cURus, PSE

Engineering Selection Recommendations

The 3AB 1.6-R is the appropriate selection for applications currently using the 3AB 1.6. The substitute part provides:

  • Full electrical and mechanical compatibility with identical current, voltage, and response characteristics
  • Active product status ensuring continued availability and supply chain reliability
  • ROHS3 compliance, addressing regulatory requirements for new designs and procurement
  • Maintained certification across CE, CSA, cURus, and PSE standards
  • Negligible DC cold resistance variance (0.085 Ohms vs. 0.084 Ohms), within acceptable tolerance for fuse applications

No design modifications or holder changes are required for this substitution.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can the 3AB 1.6-R be used as a direct replacement for the 3AB 1.6?

A: Yes. Both parts share identical electrical ratings (1.6 A, 250 V AC), fuse type (ceramic cartridge), response time (fast blow), physical dimensions (1/4" x 1-1/4"), and breaking capacity (100 A). No circuit modifications are necessary.

Q: What is the difference between the 3AB 1.6 and 3AB 1.6-R?

A: The primary differences are product status and compliance. The 3AB 1.6 is obsolete and RoHS non-compliant, while the 3AB 1.6-R is active and ROHS3 compliant. DC cold resistance differs marginally (0.084 vs. 0.085 Ohms), which is insignificant for fuse operation.

Q: Do both parts require the same holder?

A: Yes. Both the 3AB 1.6 and 3AB 1.6-R require the 3AB or 3AG holder and maintain the same 1/4" x 1-1/4" form factor. Existing holder installations are compatible with the substitute part.

Q: Are the certifications equivalent between the two parts?

A: Both parts carry CE, CSA, and PSE certifications. The 3AB 1.6-R includes cURus certification in place of UL. For applications requiring specific certification, verify that cURus meets your regulatory requirements.

Q: What is the operating temperature range for both parts?

A: Both the 3AB 1.6 and 3AB 1.6-R operate across -55°C to 125°C, ensuring compatibility across identical thermal environments.

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