GSA 250-R Equivalent & Substitute Parts

Part Overview

The GSA 250-R is a 250 mA, 250 V AC ceramic cartridge fuse manufactured by Bel Fuse Inc. with a slow-blow response characteristic. This component is classified as obsolete, making identification of functionally equivalent alternatives necessary for ongoing system maintenance and repair applications. The fuse requires a standard 3AB or 3AG holder and operates across an industrial temperature range of -55°C to 125°C.

Substiute Parts

GSA 250-R

Bel Fuse Inc.In Stock: 966GSA 250-R Datasheet

Current PartRFQ

0326.250MXP

Littelfuse Inc.In Stock: 17210326.250MXP Datasheet

DirectRFQ

Key Parameters

Substitute Part Grouping Explanation

Substitution of the GSA 250-R is determined by the following critical parameters:

• Current Rating: 250 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" (exact match required for holder compatibility)
• Mounting Type: Requires Holder (exact match required)
• Operating Temperature Range: -55°C ~ 125°C (exact match required)

The substitute part 0326.250MXP manufactured by Littelfuse Inc. meets all these critical parameters. Additional voltage rating capability (125 V DC) and enhanced breaking capacity do not preclude substitution, as these represent superior performance characteristics within the same functional category.

Parameter Comparison

Engineering Selection Recommendations

The 0326.250MXP from Littelfuse Inc. is the direct equivalent substitute for the obsolete GSA 250-R. Both components share identical current, AC voltage, fuse type, response time, package dimensions, and operating temperature specifications. The substitute part carries active product status, ensuring continued availability and supply chain reliability.

Regulatory compliance is maintained across both components. The GSA 250-R holds CE, CSA, and cULus certifications, while the 0326.250MXP holds CE, CSA, and UL certifications. Both components are ROHS3 compliant and REACH unaffected, meeting current environmental and regulatory requirements.

The 0326.250MXP provides enhanced performance characteristics including DC voltage rating capability (125 V) and increased breaking capacity (100 A AC, 10 kA DC) compared to the original part (35 A). These enhancements do not compromise compatibility and represent superior protective characteristics for the same application space.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can the 0326.250MXP be used as a direct replacement for the GSA 250-R in existing equipment?

A: Yes. Both components share identical current rating (250 mA), AC voltage rating (250 V), fuse type (ceramic cartridge), response time (slow blow), package dimensions (3AB, 3AG, 1/4" x 1-1/4"), and operating temperature range (-55°C to 125°C). The substitute part is physically and electrically compatible with existing 3AB/3AG holders.

Q: What is the significance of the different breaking capacity values?

A: The GSA 250-R has a breaking capacity of 35 A, while the 0326.250MXP has 100 A AC and 10 kA DC. Breaking capacity defines the maximum fault current the fuse can safely interrupt. The higher breaking capacity of the substitute part provides enhanced protection capability without affecting normal operation at the 250 mA rated current.

Q: Why does the 0326.250MXP have a DC voltage rating when the GSA 250-R does not?

A: The 0326.250MXP is rated for both 250 V AC and 125 V DC operation, providing broader application flexibility. The GSA 250-R specification does not include a DC rating. In AC-only applications, this additional capability does not affect compatibility or performance.

Q: Are there compliance differences between the two parts?

A: Both components are ROHS3 compliant and REACH unaffected. Certification agencies differ slightly: GSA 250-R holds CE, CSA, and cULus certifications, while 0326.250MXP holds CE, CSA, and UL certifications. Both meet current regulatory standards for industrial and commercial applications.

Q: What is the difference in melting I²t values?

A: The GSA 250-R has a melting I²t of 1.2, while the 0326.250MXP has 0.432. The melting I²t value indicates the thermal energy required to melt the fuse element. The lower value in the substitute part reflects faster thermal response at equivalent current ratings, providing more precise protection characteristics.

Q: Is the GSA 250-R still available for purchase?

A: The GSA 250-R is classified as obsolete. The 0326.250MXP is an active product with confirmed inventory availability, making it the recommended choice for new procurement and system maintenance.