GSA 160-R Equivalent & Substitute Parts

Part Overview

The GSA 160-R is a 160 mA ceramic cartridge fuse rated for 250 V AC/DC operation, manufactured by Bel Fuse Inc. This component is classified as obsolete, necessitating identification of functionally equivalent alternatives for ongoing system support and component procurement. The fuse requires a 3AB or 3AG holder and operates across a temperature range of -55°C to 125°C with slow-blow response characteristics.

Substiute Parts

GSA 160-R

Bel Fuse Inc.In Stock: 985GSA 160-R Datasheet

Current PartRFQ

0326.175MXP

Littelfuse Inc.In Stock: 10260326.175MXP Datasheet

DirectRFQ

Key Parameters

Substitute Part Grouping Explanation

Substitution eligibility for the GSA 160-R is determined by the following critical parameters:

• Current Rating tolerance within circuit protection requirements
• Voltage Rating (AC) compatibility at 250 V minimum
• Fuse Type (Cartridge, Ceramic) for mechanical and electrical consistency
• Package / Case dimensions (3AB, 3AG, 1/4" x 1-1/4") for holder compatibility
• Response Time (Slow Blow) for circuit behavior matching
• Operating Temperature Range (-55°C ~ 125°C) for environmental suitability
• RoHS3 Compliance for regulatory alignment

The substitute part 0326.175MXP (Littelfuse Inc.) meets these core substitution criteria with a 175 mA current rating, representing a 9.4% increase from the original 160 mA specification. This variance falls within acceptable tolerance for ceramic cartridge fuse substitution when circuit design permits.

Parameter Comparison

Engineering Selection Recommendations

The 0326.175MXP serves as a direct functional substitute for the obsolete GSA 160-R based on matching mechanical form factor, voltage rating, and thermal operating range. Both components are ROHS3 compliant and REACH unaffected, satisfying current regulatory requirements.

The 0326.175MXP is classified as Active product status, ensuring continued availability and supply chain stability compared to the obsolete GSA 160-R. The substitute carries CE approval; the original part includes additional CSA and cULus certifications. Circuit design validation is required to confirm that the 175 mA rating is acceptable within the protected circuit's maximum allowable current threshold.

The 0326.175MXP demonstrates superior breaking capacity (100 A versus 35 A), providing enhanced fault protection margins in high-energy fault scenarios.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can the 0326.175MXP directly replace the GSA 160-R without modification?

A: Both components share identical mechanical packaging (3AB, 3AG, 1/4" x 1-1/4"), voltage rating (250 V AC), response time (Slow Blow), and operating temperature range (-55°C ~ 125°C). Physical installation compatibility is confirmed. Circuit design review is required to validate that the 175 mA rating does not exceed circuit protection requirements.

Q: What is the significance of the current rating difference (160 mA vs. 175 mA)?

A: The 0326.175MXP carries a 9.4% higher current rating. This substitution is valid only when circuit design permits operation at the higher threshold. If the original 160 mA rating was selected for specific circuit protection, alternative parts matching the exact 160 mA specification must be sourced.

Q: Are there certification differences between these parts?

A: The GSA 160-R holds CE, CSA, and cULus approvals. The 0326.175MXP holds CE approval. Application requirements for CSA or cULus certification must be evaluated independently.

Q: How do the physical dimensions compare?

A: Both parts measure 0.250" diameter. The GSA 160-R is 1.252" long (31.80 mm); the 0326.175MXP is 1.250" long (31.75 mm). This 0.002" (0.05 mm) difference is negligible for holder compatibility.

Q: What is the breaking capacity significance?

A: The 0326.175MXP provides 100 A breaking capacity versus 35 A for the GSA 160-R. Higher breaking capacity indicates superior performance in high-energy fault conditions, representing an engineering advantage in fault protection.