Equivalent & Substitute Parts for BK/ABC-4RX Ceramic Cartridge Fuse

Part Overview

The BK/ABC-4RX is a 4 A ceramic cartridge fuse manufactured by Eaton - Electronics Division, rated for 250 V AC and 125 V DC operation. This fast-blow fuse is designed for applications requiring reliable overcurrent protection in industrial and commercial equipment. The part is currently active in production with 1118 pieces available in inventory. Substitute parts are identified to provide alternative sourcing options when the primary part is unavailable or when design requirements necessitate equivalent functionality from alternative manufacturers.

Substiute Parts

BK/ABC-4RX

Eaton - Electronics DivisionIn Stock: 1142BK/ABC-4RX Datasheet

Current PartRFQ

0314004.HXP

LittelfuseIn Stock: 11330314004.HXP Datasheet

DirectRFQ

0314004.VXP

Littelfuse Inc.In Stock: 13640314004.VXP Datasheet

DirectRFQ

Key Parameters

Substitute Part Grouping Explanation

Substitution eligibility for the BK/ABC-4RX is determined by strict equivalence across the following critical parameters:

Mandatory Matching Parameters:

• Current Rating: 4 A
• Voltage Rating - AC: 250 V
• Voltage Rating - DC: 125 V
• Fuse Type: Cartridge, Ceramic
• Response Time: Fast Blow
• Package / Case: 3AB, 3AG, 1/4" x 1-1/4"
• Mounting Type: Requires Holder

All identified substitute parts meet these requirements. The substitute parts are manufactured by Littelfuse Inc. and are designated as 0314004.HXP and 0314004.VXP, both belonging to the Littelfuse 314 series. These parts maintain functional and mechanical compatibility with the original BK/ABC-4RX specification.

Parameter Comparison

Engineering Selection Recommendations

Primary Selection Criteria:

The BK/ABC-4RX remains the specified part for applications where Eaton sourcing is required or preferred. Both Littelfuse substitute parts (0314004.HXP and 0314004.VXP) provide equivalent electrical and mechanical functionality for the core application requirements.

Compliance Considerations:

The Littelfuse alternatives (0314004.HXP and 0314004.VXP) carry expanded regulatory approvals including CE, CSA, K-MARK, PSE, and UL certifications, compared to the BK/ABC-4RX which carries CSA and UL approvals. Both Littelfuse parts are ROHS3 compliant, whereas the BK/ABC-4RX is RoHS non-compliant.

Inventory Availability:

Current stock levels are: BK/ABC-4RX (1118 pieces), 0314004.HXP (1046 pieces), and 0314004.VXP (1308 pieces). Selection between the two Littelfuse options may be based on packaging preference (both listed as Bulk) or supply chain logistics.

Physical Dimensions:

Minor dimensional variations exist between the Eaton part and Littelfuse substitutes. The BK/ABC-4RX measures 0.266" diameter by 1.292" length, while both Littelfuse parts measure 0.250" diameter by 1.250" length. These differences remain within the 3AB, 3AG, 1/4" x 1-1/4" package specification and do not affect holder compatibility.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can 0314004.HXP and 0314004.VXP be used interchangeably with BK/ABC-4RX?

A: Yes. Both Littelfuse parts meet all mandatory electrical and mechanical parameters: 4 A current rating, 250 V AC / 125 V DC voltage ratings, ceramic cartridge construction, fast-blow response, and 3AB/3AG package compatibility. Physical dimensions remain within specification tolerances for holder compatibility.

Q: What is the difference between 0314004.HXP and 0314004.VXP?

A: Both parts are functionally identical in electrical and mechanical specifications. The primary differences are packaging designation (both Bulk) and regulatory approvals. 0314004.HXP carries K-MARK approval, while 0314004.VXP carries KC approval. Selection between them depends on regional regulatory requirements or supply chain availability.

Q: Are there compliance differences between the original and substitute parts?

A: Yes. The BK/ABC-4RX is RoHS non-compliant, while both Littelfuse substitutes (0314004.HXP and 0314004.VXP) are ROHS3 compliant. Applications requiring RoHS compliance must use the Littelfuse alternatives. The Littelfuse parts also carry additional regulatory approvals (CE, PSE) beyond the original part's CSA and UL certifications.

Q: Do the dimensional differences affect installation?

A: No. Although the Littelfuse parts are slightly smaller (0.250" diameter vs. 0.266" diameter, and 1.250" length vs. 1.292" length), both remain within the 3AB, 3AG, 1/4" x 1-1/4" package specification and are compatible with standard fuse holders designed for this package type.

Q: What is the significance of the melting I²t difference?

A: The BK/ABC-4RX has a melting I²t of 29.1, while both Littelfuse substitutes have a melting I²t of 10.4. This indicates the Littelfuse parts respond faster to overcurrent conditions. Applications with specific I²t requirements must verify compatibility with the substitute part's thermal characteristics.

Q: What is the significance of the DC cold resistance difference?

A: The BK/ABC-4RX has a DC cold resistance of 0.02975 Ohms, while both Littelfuse substitutes have 0.047 Ohms. This difference may affect voltage drop in low-voltage DC circuits. Applications sensitive to voltage drop must evaluate the impact of the higher resistance in the Littelfuse alternatives.

Q: Which substitute part should be selected for new designs?

A: Selection between 0314004.HXP and 0314004.VXP depends on regional regulatory requirements. For applications requiring RoHS compliance and expanded international approvals, either Littelfuse part is suitable. Verify specific regional certification requirements (K-MARK vs. KC) based on intended market deployment.