V320PA40A Equivalent & Substitute Parts

Part Overview

The V320PA40A is a 510 V varistor manufactured by Littelfuse Inc., designed for transient voltage suppression in chassis mount applications. This component is classified as obsolete, making equivalent substitute parts necessary for new designs and ongoing system maintenance. The varistor provides single-circuit protection with a surge current rating of 6.5 kA and energy absorption capacity of 160 J, suitable for AC voltage environments up to 320 V.

Substiute Parts

V320PA40A

Littelfuse Inc.In Stock: 928V320PA40A Datasheet

Current PartRFQ

B72240L0321K100

EPCOS - TDK ElectronicsIn Stock: 1231B72240L0321K100 Datasheet

MFR RecommendedRFQ

Key Parameters

Substitute Part Grouping Explanation

The B72240L0321K100 varistor from EPCOS - TDK Electronics qualifies as a functional substitute based on the following critical parameters:

Matching Parameters:

• Maximum AC Volts: 320 V (identical)
• Maximum DC Volts: 420 V (identical)
• Varistor Voltage (Typ): 510 V (identical)
• Number of Circuits: 1 (identical)
• Mounting Type: Chassis Mount (identical)
• Category: Transient Voltage Suppressors (TVS) (identical)

Enhanced Capabilities:

• Current - Surge: 40 kA (versus 6.5 kA in original)
• Energy: 640 J (versus 160 J in original)
• Product Status: Active (versus Obsolete)
• RoHS Status: ROHS3 Compliant (versus RoHS non-compliant)

The substitute part maintains voltage protection specifications while providing superior surge current handling and energy absorption capacity. The active product status ensures ongoing availability and supply chain continuity.

Parameter Comparison

Engineering Selection Recommendations

The B72240L0321K100 is the designated manufacturer-recommended substitute for the obsolete V320PA40A. Selection of this substitute is supported by:

Product Status: The V320PA40A is obsolete, creating supply and support discontinuity. The B72240L0321K100 maintains active product status with ongoing manufacturer support and availability.

Regulatory Compliance: The B72240L0321K100 achieves ROHS3 compliance, meeting current environmental and regulatory requirements. The original V320PA40A does not meet RoHS standards, which may restrict use in regulated applications and markets.

Electrical Compatibility: Both parts maintain identical maximum AC and DC voltage ratings (320 V AC / 420 V DC) and nominal varistor voltage (510 V), ensuring direct functional replacement in existing circuit designs.

Enhanced Performance: The substitute part provides increased surge current capacity (40 kA versus 6.5 kA) and energy absorption (640 J versus 160 J), offering improved transient protection margins without circuit redesign.

Mechanical Compatibility: Both components are chassis mount configurations, though package geometry differs (Base Mount versus Square 37.5mm with Formed Tabs). Physical mounting verification is required during integration.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can the B72240L0321K100 directly replace the V320PA40A without circuit modification?

A: Electrical parameters are compatible. The voltage ratings and nominal varistor voltage are identical, allowing direct functional substitution. Physical mounting geometry differs, requiring mechanical integration verification.

Q: What are the key differences between these two varistors?

A: The primary differences are product status (obsolete versus active), surge current rating (6.5 kA versus 40 kA), energy capacity (160 J versus 640 J), RoHS compliance status, and operating temperature range (-55°C to 85°C versus -25°C to 85°C). Voltage protection specifications remain identical.

Q: Why does the substitute part have higher surge current and energy ratings?

A: The B72240L0321K100 represents a more robust design from EPCOS - TDK Electronics with enhanced transient suppression capability. These increased ratings provide additional protection margin and do not negatively impact compatibility with the original circuit design.

Q: Are there any temperature range limitations with the substitute part?

A: The B72240L0321K100 operates from -25°C to 85°C, compared to the original -55°C to 85°C range. Applications requiring operation below -25°C require thermal analysis to confirm suitability.

Q: What is the significance of RoHS3 compliance on the substitute part?

A: ROHS3 compliance indicates the B72240L0321K100 meets current environmental regulations and is suitable for regulated markets and applications. The original V320PA40A does not meet RoHS standards, which may restrict deployment in certain regions or industries.

Q: How do the package differences affect installation?

A: The V320PA40A uses Base Mount packaging, while the B72240L0321K100 uses Square 37.5mm with Formed Tabs. Physical mounting structure and footprint differ, requiring mechanical redesign or adapter consideration during integration.