BK/MDA-V-1/2-R Ceramic Cartridge Fuse Equivalent & Substitute Parts

Part Overview

The BK/MDA-V-1/2-R is a 500 mA ceramic cartridge fuse manufactured by Eaton - Electronics Division, rated for 250 V AC operation with slow-blow response characteristics. This fuse is designed for through-hole mounting in 3AB, 3AG form factor applications requiring circuit protection in AC-powered equipment. The part maintains active product status with 871 units in current inventory. Equivalent and substitute parts are identified to support procurement flexibility, design redundancy, and supply chain continuity when the primary part becomes unavailable or when alternative sourcing is required.

Substiute Parts

BK/MDA-V-1/2-R

Eaton - Electronics DivisionIn Stock: 972BK/MDA-V-1/2-R Datasheet

Current PartRFQ

0325.500HXP

Littelfuse Inc.In Stock: 12240325.500HXP Datasheet

SimilarRFQ

Key Parameters

Substitute Part Grouping Explanation

Substitution eligibility for the BK/MDA-V-1/2-R is determined by strict alignment of the following critical parameters:

Mandatory Matching Parameters:

• Current Rating: 500 mA (exact match required)
• Voltage Rating - AC: 250 V (exact match required)
• Fuse Type: Cartridge, Ceramic (exact match required)
• Response Time: Slow Blow (exact match required)
• Package / Case: 3AB, 3AG, 1/4" x 1-1/4" (Axial) (exact match required)
• Mounting Type: Through Hole (exact match required)

Acceptable Variation Parameters:

• Voltage Rating - DC: Substitute may include DC rating not present in main part
• Breaking Capacity: Substitute may exceed main part specification
• Melting I²t: Substitute may differ within ceramic fuse standards
• DC Cold Resistance: Substitute may vary within acceptable tolerance
• Operating Temperature Range: Substitute may provide extended range
• Approval Agencies: Substitute must maintain CE, CSA, UL certifications

The substitute part 0325.500HXP meets all mandatory matching parameters and qualifies as a direct equivalent for AC circuit protection applications.

Parameter Comparison

Engineering Selection Recommendations

Primary Part Selection (BK/MDA-V-1/2-R): Select the BK/MDA-V-1/2-R when the original design specification explicitly requires Eaton MDA series fuses or when existing inventory supports continued procurement. This part maintains active product status and carries full CE, CSA, and UL approvals. ROHS3 compliance ensures regulatory alignment for current manufacturing standards.

Substitute Part Selection (0325.500HXP): The Littelfuse 0325.500HXP serves as a direct functional equivalent for AC circuit protection applications operating at 250 V, 500 mA with slow-blow response. This substitute maintains identical electrical performance in AC-only circuits and provides superior breaking capacity (100 A AC versus 35 A) and lower DC cold resistance (1.3 Ohms versus 2.6 Ohms). The part carries equivalent CE, CSA, and UL certifications and ROHS3 compliance. Selection of the substitute is appropriate when supply constraints affect the primary part or when the enhanced breaking capacity provides system-level benefits. The addition of 125 V DC rating in the substitute does not compromise AC-only applications and may provide design flexibility for future dual-voltage requirements.

Both parts are active products with current inventory availability and meet all mandatory regulatory and compliance requirements for direct substitution in 250 V AC ceramic cartridge fuse applications.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can the 0325.500HXP substitute for the BK/MDA-V-1/2-R in all applications?

A: The 0325.500HXP is a direct substitute for AC circuit protection applications operating at 250 V, 500 mA with slow-blow response. Both parts share identical current rating, AC voltage rating, fuse type, response time, and package configuration. The substitute is suitable for direct replacement in existing designs without circuit modification.

Q: What is the significance of the DC voltage rating difference?

A: The BK/MDA-V-1/2-R does not specify a DC voltage rating, indicating it is rated for AC operation only. The 0325.500HXP includes a 125 V DC rating, meaning it can operate in both AC and DC circuits. For AC-only applications, this difference is not relevant. The DC rating in the substitute provides additional design flexibility without affecting AC performance.

Q: How do the breaking capacity specifications differ?

A: The BK/MDA-V-1/2-R has a breaking capacity of 35 A at rated voltage. The 0325.500HXP provides 100 A AC and 10 kA DC breaking capacity. Breaking capacity defines the maximum fault current the fuse can safely interrupt. The higher breaking capacity of the substitute indicates superior performance in high-fault-current environments and does not negatively impact applications with lower fault currents.

Q: Are both parts physically interchangeable?

A: Yes. Both parts use the 3AB, 3AG form factor with 1/4" x 1-1/4" (Axial) dimensions. Physical dimensions are nearly identical (BK/MDA-V-1/2-R: 0.266" Dia x 1.292" L; 0325.500HXP: 0.275" Dia x 1.288" L), and both mount through-hole. The parts are mechanically interchangeable in standard fuse holders designed for 3AG cartridge fuses.

Q: Do both parts meet the same regulatory standards?

A: Yes. Both the BK/MDA-V-1/2-R and 0325.500HXP carry CE, CSA, and UL approvals and are ROHS3 compliant. They meet identical regulatory requirements for circuit protection devices in their respective markets.

Q: What is the difference in melting I²t values?

A: The BK/MDA-V-1/2-R has a melting I²t of 1.2, while the 0325.500HXP has a melting I²t of 2.5. Melting I²t represents the thermal energy required to melt the fuse element. The higher value in the substitute indicates a slightly higher thermal threshold before element fusion occurs. Both values are within the ceramic fuse standard range for 500 mA slow-blow fuses and do not affect compatibility in standard applications.

Q: Which part should be selected for new designs?

A: For new designs, either part is acceptable based on supplier availability and cost considerations. The 0325.500HXP offers advantages including higher breaking capacity, lower DC cold resistance, and specified operating temperature range (-55°C ~ 125°C). The BK/MDA-V-1/2-R remains a valid choice if Eaton component standardization is a design requirement or if existing supply agreements favor this manufacturer.