Equivalent & Substitute Parts for BK/MDL-6 Glass Cartridge Fuse

Part Overview

The BK/MDL-6 is a 6 A, 250 V AC/DC slow-blow glass cartridge fuse manufactured by Eaton - Electronics Division. This fuse is designed for use in 3AB and 3AG holders with dimensions of 1/4" x 1-1/4" (6.35mm x 31.75mm). The part is currently classified as obsolete, which necessitates identification of active equivalent and substitute components that maintain electrical and mechanical compatibility for ongoing circuit protection applications.

Substiute Parts

BK/MDL-6

Eaton - Electronics DivisionIn Stock: 710BK/MDL-6 Datasheet

Current PartRFQ

BK/MDL-6-R

Eaton - Electronics DivisionIn Stock: 3348BK/MDL-6-R Datasheet

DirectRFQ

MDL-6-R

Eaton - Electronics DivisionIn Stock: 1047MDL-6-R Datasheet

DirectRFQ

BK/MDQ-6

Eaton - Electronics DivisionIn Stock: 1002BK/MDQ-6 Datasheet

Parametric EquivalentRFQ

MDQ-6

Eaton - Electronics DivisionIn Stock: 1050MDQ-6 Datasheet

Parametric EquivalentRFQ

Key Parameters

Substitute Part Grouping Explanation

Substitution of the BK/MDL-6 is determined by strict equivalence across the following critical parameters:

Electrical Parameters:

• Current Rating: 6 A (exact match required)
• Voltage Rating: 250 V AC (exact match required)
• Response Time: Slow Blow (exact match required)
• Breaking Capacity: 200 A (exact match required)

Mechanical Parameters:

• Package / Case: 3AB, 3AG, 1/4" x 1-1/4" (exact match required for holder compatibility)
• Fuse Type: Cartridge, Glass (exact match required)

All substitute parts listed maintain these parameters without deviation. Substitutes are grouped into two categories: direct manufacturer equivalents (BK/MDL-6-R and MDL-6-R) and parametric equivalents from an alternative series (BK/MDQ-6 and MDQ-6).

Parameter Comparison

Engineering Selection Recommendations

Direct Manufacturer Equivalents (Recommended Primary Substitutes):

BK/MDL-6-R and MDL-6-R are direct equivalents within the MDL series. Both parts are active products with full electrical and mechanical compatibility to BK/MDL-6. BK/MDL-6-R carries RoHS3 compliance and CE certification in addition to CSA and UL approvals, making it suitable for applications requiring enhanced regulatory compliance. MDL-6-R maintains RoHS compliance with CSA and UL approvals. Both parts are available in bulk packaging with substantial inventory levels (3255 and 1030 units respectively).

Parametric Equivalents (Alternative Series):

BK/MDQ-6 and MDQ-6 are parametric equivalents from the MDQ series. These parts maintain identical electrical ratings, response characteristics, and mechanical dimensions. Both are active products with CSA and UL approvals. BK/MDQ-6 carries RoHS non-compliance status, while MDQ-6 does not specify RoHS status. These parts are suitable for applications where series designation is not a constraint and parametric equivalence is the primary selection criterion.

Compliance Considerations:

For applications requiring RoHS3 compliance and CE certification, BK/MDL-6-R is the optimal selection. For applications requiring only CSA and UL approvals, all four substitute parts are acceptable. Inventory availability is highest for BK/MDL-6-R (3255 units).

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can BK/MDL-6-R be used as a direct replacement for the obsolete BK/MDL-6?

A: Yes. BK/MDL-6-R maintains identical electrical parameters (6 A, 250 V AC, slow-blow response, 200 A breaking capacity) and mechanical specifications (3AB/3AG holder compatibility, 1/4" x 1-1/4" dimensions). The part is an active product with enhanced compliance certifications.

Q: What is the difference between MDL-6-R and BK/MDL-6-R?

A: Both parts are electrically and mechanically identical. The primary difference is packaging designation and compliance certifications. BK/MDL-6-R includes CE certification and RoHS3 compliance, while MDL-6-R specifies RoHS compliance without CE designation. Selection depends on regulatory requirements for the application.

Q: Are MDQ-6 and BK/MDQ-6 compatible with existing 3AB and 3AG holders?

A: Yes. MDQ-6 and BK/MDQ-6 maintain the same physical dimensions (0.250" Dia x 1.250" L) and package designation (3AB, 3AG, 1/4" x 1-1/4"), ensuring mechanical compatibility with existing holders. Electrical parameters are identical to the main part.

Q: What is the significance of DC Cold Resistance variation among these parts?

A: DC cold resistance values range from 0.01715 to 0.022 ohms across the substitute parts. These variations are within acceptable tolerances for slow-blow cartridge fuses and do not affect functional compatibility or circuit protection performance at the specified 6 A rating.

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

A: For new designs, BK/MDL-6-R is recommended due to active product status, RoHS3 compliance, CE certification, and highest inventory availability. For applications with specific series requirements, MDL-6-R provides an alternative within the same MDL series.

Q: Are all substitute parts certified by the same approval agencies?

A: BK/MDL-6-R and MDL-6-R carry CE, CSA, and UL certifications. BK/MDQ-6 and MDQ-6 carry CSA and UL certifications without CE designation. Selection should align with application-specific certification requirements.