Hinode 250GH-50UL | Ultra-Rapid Fuse for Critical Semiconductor Protection
The Hinode 250GH-50UL is not merely a fuse; it is a precision-engineered safety device designed to provide uncompromising protection for high-value power semiconductors. In modern power electronics, where components like IGBTs, thyristors, and diodes operate under immense electrical stress, the 250GH-50UL acts as a critical safeguard, preventing catastrophic failures, minimizing system downtime, and protecting capital investment. Its ultra-rapid response is specifically tailored to the sensitive operational limits of today's fast-switching devices.
Key Performance Characteristics
Engineers choose the Hinode 250GH-50UL for its superior performance metrics in demanding applications. Its design philosophy centers on speed, reliability, and safety.
- Ultra-Fast Acting: Engineered with an extremely low total clearing I²t value, it interrupts fault currents in microseconds, well before the protected semiconductor reaches its thermal or electrical breaking point.
- High Breaking Capacity: With a rating of 200kA, this fuse can safely interrupt even the most severe short-circuit currents without rupturing, preventing arc flash and subsequent equipment damage.
- Optimized for Semiconductors: The design minimizes arc voltage during operation, reducing the electrical stress (di/dt) imposed on the rest of the circuit during a fault event.
- UL Recognized: Carries UL recognition (File No. E343213), streamlining the certification process for end equipment destined for the North American market and guaranteeing adherence to stringent safety standards.
Technical Specifications at a Glance
The following parameters are essential for system designers integrating the 250GH-50UL. For comprehensive data, including detailed time-current curves, please download the official Hinode 250GH series datasheet.
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Rated Voltage (AC) | 250V |
| Rated Current | 50A |
| Breaking Capacity | 200kA @ 250V AC |
| Total Clearing I²t (at 250V) | 550 A²s |
| Body Style | Bolted / Blade Type |
Application Scenarios: Where Precision Protection Matters
The true value of the Hinode 250GH-50UL is demonstrated in its ability to protect the core components of high-power conversion systems. Its characteristics make it an ideal choice for:
- Variable Frequency Drives (VFDs): In motor drives, this fuse provides critical protection for the inverter bridge. It can isolate the drive from a motor winding short-circuit or an internal shoot-through event, saving the expensive IGBT modules from destruction.
- Uninterruptible Power Supplies (UPS): Protects the inverter and rectifier stages in high-power UPS systems. Its fast action ensures that in the event of a load-side short circuit, the system is safely disconnected, maintaining the integrity of the remaining components.
- Welding Power Supplies: The high cyclic loads and potential for output short circuits in welding applications demand extremely fast protection. The 250GH-50UL safeguards the power stage, preventing failures that could halt production lines.
- Solar & Energy Storage Inverters: Guards the DC-AC inverter stage against faults, which is essential for maximizing the uptime and operational lifespan of renewable energy systems. A key aspect of this is preventing cascading failures, a frequent topic in IGBT failure analysis.
Expert FAQ for Design Engineers
Our power electronics specialists frequently address these key questions regarding semiconductor fuse selection.
How is the 250GH-50UL different from a standard HRC (High Rupturing Capacity) fuse?
The primary differentiator is speed, quantified by the I²t rating. A standard industrial fuse is designed to protect cables and general equipment, with reaction times in the milliseconds. The 250GH-50UL is an ultra-rapid, or semiconductor, fuse. Its low I²t value ensures it will open a circuit fast enough to protect a semiconductor's junction, which often has a short-circuit withstand time of only 5-10 microseconds (μs).
What is the engineering benefit of its high (200kA) breaking capacity?
Breaking capacity is a measure of safety. It is the maximum prospective fault current a fuse can safely clear without catastrophic failure (i.e., exploding). In industrial settings, proximity to large transformers means available fault currents can be extremely high. A 200kA rating provides confidence that the fuse will perform its protective function safely under the worst-case conditions, a critical requirement for any robust Variable Frequency Drive (VFD) or power system design.
For detailed application support or to discuss how the Hinode 250GH-50UL can enhance the reliability of your next project, please contact our technical team.
