3AB 2.5 Ceramic Fuse Equivalent & Substitute Parts

Part Overview

The 3AB 2.5 is a ceramic cartridge fuse rated for 2.5 A at 250 V AC/DC with fast-blow response characteristics. This component is classified as obsolete, which necessitates identification of equivalent substitute parts for ongoing system maintenance and new designs. The 3AB series fuses are designed for applications requiring reliable overcurrent protection in industrial and commercial equipment.

Substiute Parts

3AB 2.5
Bel Fuse Inc.In Stock: 12593AB 2.5 Datasheet
3AB 2.5
Current Part
3AB 2.5-R
Bel Fuse Inc.In Stock: 16193AB 2.5-R Datasheet
3AB 2.5-R
Direct

Key Parameters

Parameter Value
Current Rating 2.5 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 12
DC Cold Resistance 0.047 Ohms
Operating Temperature Range -55°C to 125°C

Substitute Part Grouping Explanation

The 3AB 2.5-R qualifies as a direct substitute for the 3AB 2.5 based on identical electrical and mechanical parameters. Substitution is valid when the following criteria are met:

  • Current rating: 2.5 A (identical)
  • Voltage rating: 250 V AC (identical)
  • Fuse type: Cartridge, Ceramic (identical)
  • Response time: Fast Blow (identical)
  • Physical dimensions: 0.250" Dia x 1.252" L (identical)
  • Breaking capacity: 100 A @ Rated Voltage (identical)
  • Melting I²t: 12 (identical)
  • DC cold resistance: 0.047 Ohms (identical)
  • Operating temperature range: -55°C to 125°C (identical)
  • Mounting requirement: Requires Holder (identical)

Parameter Comparison

Parameter 3AB 2.5 (Main Part) 3AB 2.5-R (Substitute)
Manufacturer Bel Fuse Inc. Bel Fuse Inc.
Current Rating 2.5 A 2.5 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 12 12
DC Cold Resistance 0.047 Ohms 0.047 Ohms
Operating Temperature Range -55°C to 125°C -55°C to 125°C
Product Status Obsolete Active
RoHS Status RoHS non-compliant RoHS3 Compliant
Approval Agencies CE, CSA, PSE, UL CE, CSA, cURus, PSE

Engineering Selection Recommendations

The 3AB 2.5-R is the direct equivalent substitute for the obsolete 3AB 2.5. Both parts share identical electrical specifications, mechanical dimensions, and thermal characteristics. The primary distinction is product status: the 3AB 2.5-R is active and carries RoHS3 compliance, whereas the main part is obsolete and RoHS non-compliant. For new designs and ongoing procurement, the 3AB 2.5-R is the appropriate selection. Both parts maintain equivalent approval certifications from CE, CSA, and PSE agencies, with the substitute offering cURus certification in addition to UL.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can the 3AB 2.5-R be used as a direct replacement for the 3AB 2.5?

A: Yes. The 3AB 2.5-R is a direct substitute. All electrical parameters (current rating, voltage rating, response time, breaking capacity, melting I²t, and DC cold resistance) are identical. Physical dimensions and mounting requirements are also identical, ensuring compatibility with existing 3AB/3AG fuse holders.

Q: What is the difference between the 3AB 2.5 and 3AB 2.5-R?

A: The primary differences are product status and compliance. The 3AB 2.5 is obsolete and RoHS non-compliant, while the 3AB 2.5-R is active and RoHS3 compliant. Electrical and mechanical specifications are identical.

Q: Are there any compatibility concerns when switching from 3AB 2.5 to 3AB 2.5-R?

A: No. Both parts use the same 3AB/3AG package format with identical physical dimensions (0.250" Dia x 1.252" L). They are mechanically and electrically interchangeable in all applications requiring a 2.5 A, 250 V AC/DC fast-blow ceramic cartridge fuse.

Q: What certifications does the 3AB 2.5-R carry?

A: The 3AB 2.5-R is certified by CE, CSA, cURus, and PSE. The original 3AB 2.5 carries CE, CSA, PSE, and UL certifications. Both meet the approval requirements for industrial and commercial fuse applications.

Q: Is the 3AB 2.5-R suitable for new product designs?

A: Yes. The 3AB 2.5-R is an active product with current availability and RoHS3 compliance, making it the appropriate choice for new designs requiring a 2.5 A, 250 V AC/DC ceramic cartridge fuse in the 3AB/3AG form factor.

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