Ultra-fast fuses interrupt the current very quickly in the event of a short circuit, protecting sensitive power electronics components (inverters, batteries, HV wiring) from catastrophic damages. They are particularly well suited for applications with high-density lithium-ion batteries and 800 V systems, where current peaks can be very high.
The classic design of ultra-fast fuses relies on very thin and delicate internal elements.
In electric vehicles, fuses must withstand continuous vibrations, accidental shocks during vehicle operation and maintenance, and repeated thermal cycles without altering their trip characteristics. Fuses designed solely for fast response can degrade rapidly due to vibrations and thermal cycling, potentially resulting in reduced service life in real-world environments.
The new FaulTrap Z series fuse range adopts advanced engineering solutions:
- Fast-acting fuse elements combined with vibration-absorbing materials.
- A structure that isolates the elements from shocks and vibrations.
- Optimization of trip time and rated current to balance fast protection with mechanical robustness.
As a result, FaulTrap fuses are ideal for EV applications and can be integrated with systems using electronic switches maintaining their nominal characteristics throughout the vehicle’s lifetime (typically 8–10 years or 150,000–200,000 km).