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BS 1362 ("plug top") fuses.

Does anyone on here know why the time/current characteristics published for BS1361 "plug top" fuses have two curves illustrated both for the 3 amp and the 13 amp sizes? It gives an "operating zone". To the best of my knowledge, no other overcurrent protection devices have two time/current curves. The BS1362 time/current chart isn't in BS7671 because (I think) it's not part of the fixed installation so the chart I have came off the internet. Not a major issue in itself - just a bit of a puzzle to me. The reason for my question is that I "considered the manufacturer's instructions" when connecting up a recent new boiler, and a 3 amp supply fuse was recommended, which I duly installed in an FCU. However, the radial circuit is on a 6amp Type B RCBO, so I was subsequently checking for selectivity ( I should have done that first - there isn't any!)
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  • I agree that a 3 amp fuse and a 6 amp MCB wont reliably discriminate.

    I would still fit the 3 amp fuse, for leagal, liability and warranty reasons. If the instructions state "fit a 3 amp fuse" I would do exactly that.


    In the probably rare event of a fault, having to check the fuse and the MCB is no big deal.


    "Fit a 3 amp fuse" is a nice simple instruction for the plumber or gas fitter who installs the boiler. Avoids any doubt or ambiguity.

    A more complex instruction such as "fit a 3 amp fuse unless the supply is from a 6 amp MCB" Increases the risk of mistakes.
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  • I agree that a 3 amp fuse and a 6 amp MCB wont reliably discriminate.

    I would still fit the 3 amp fuse, for leagal, liability and warranty reasons. If the instructions state "fit a 3 amp fuse" I would do exactly that.


    In the probably rare event of a fault, having to check the fuse and the MCB is no big deal.


    "Fit a 3 amp fuse" is a nice simple instruction for the plumber or gas fitter who installs the boiler. Avoids any doubt or ambiguity.

    A more complex instruction such as "fit a 3 amp fuse unless the supply is from a 6 amp MCB" Increases the risk of mistakes.
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