Understanding Parallel Medium Voltage Fuses

Posted on July 9, 2025 by Kimberly Underwood
Understanding Parallel Medium Voltage Fuses

Some circuits need to carry on higher load circuits, and this might call for multiple fuse links in parallel as to evenly distribute the electrical load. To do this, you must have identical rated currents for all fuse links, minimal resistance variation between fuses, and proper synchronization of load splitting. And of course, safety is an absolute must. When a parallel fuse is set up with a lot of planning and care, it can allow for a higher current capacity while maintaining system protection.

Let’s break down how to calculate the required rating for using our SIBA HV fuses in parallel applications, along with other key considerations.

Parallel Medium Voltage MV Fuses

How to Calculate the Required Rating for Parallel Medium Voltage Fuses

When fuses are connected in parallel, the current rating total is actually greater than the sum of the rated currents of the individual fuses. When considering safety and reliability, this value needs to be adjusted.

Key Formula:

Total Current Rating= (Fuse 1 rated current+Fuse 2 rated current+…+Fuse N rated current) ×Safety Factor

Example Calculation:

If you have two 50A MV fuses in parallel and apply a safety factor of 1.2*:

(50A+50A) ×1.2=120A

This ensures the system operates within safe limits while accounting for potential variations in load and current sharing.

Key Considerations for Parallel Fuse Applications

1. Fuse Type and Compatibility

  • Always use identical fuses that have the same voltage rating to ensure an even current distribution.
  • These parallel fuses must be designed for high-voltage applications to effectively handle short-circuits.
Parallel Medium Voltage MV Fuses

2. Current Sharing & Load Balancing

  • In an ideal situation, a current should divide equally between fuses in a parallel setup. However, minor variations in manufacturing tolerances can lead to an uneven distribution.
  • In order to minimize variations in internal resistance, fuses must be used from the same production batch.

3. Safety Factor

  • To account for potential load fluctuations, apply a safety factor (typically 1.1 to 1.25). This also provides protection from other various conditions.

4. Manufacturer Guidelines

  • Make sure you refer to SIBA’s technical datasheets to gain information on specific recommendations for parallel fuse applications, such as the best way to install them and rated current values.

Why Choose SIBA HV Fuses?

SIBA HV fuses thrive in medium voltage applications, and have many features and advantages:

✅ Reliable Sealing to protect against humidity, dust, and corrosion

✅ Long service life with limited age degradation

✅ Low power losses to ensure energy efficiency and protection from overheating

✅ High breaking capacity that prevents damage by using fast current limitation

✅ Low switching voltage to enhance overall system stability

✅ Decades of proven real-world reliability

You can also use SIBA HV Fuses for a number of various applications, including:

  • Distribution transformers
  • Motor circuits
  • Capacitor banks
  • Voltage transformers
  • Cable feeders

SIBA’s Fast Current Limitation Advantages

While SIBA’s HV fuses offer a myriad of features, benefits, and applications, one aspect that shines the most is its ability to quickly limit short-circuit currents, protecting your equipment and switchgear from thermal and dynamic damage. This is essential for high-current applications where you need a fast response to avoid any catastrophic failures.

Get Yours Today!

Using parallel MV fuses lets you have high system reliability while also allowing for increased current capacity. If you follow these essential calculation methods, consider load balancing factors, and use SIBA HV fuses, you can guarantee optimal performance and protection for your project.

Have questions or need assistance selecting the right fuses for your system? Contact us today! If you would like to check out a variety of products that we handle that will suit your needs, please visit our website and submit a quote at https://hill-tech.com/, contact us at 847-255-4400, fax us at (847) 255-0192, or email us at sales@hilltech.com. And be sure to look at our social media pages, linked below!

Hill Technical Sales provides expert design and implementation of quality components for Electrical Power Conversion & Distribution, Thermal Management, UV Curing, and High-Speed Industrial Imaging for more information:

Connect with us:              

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Unleashing Surge Energy: How Laminated Bus Bar Structures Supercharge Power Delivery

Posted on June 4, 2025 by Kimberly Underwood
Unleashing Surge Energy: How Laminated Bus Bar Structures Power Delivery

Engineers crave speed and precision in high-performance power systems, especially when these systems are delivering surge energy. If you need faster and more efficient energy transfers, along with minimal losses, you need to check out laminated bus bar structures.

Why the Laminated Bus Bar is a Game-Changer

Laminated bus bars might not look all too impressive at first—you might see them and ask yourself, “Is it just a stack of copper plates?” In reality, these are actually engineering marvels that can drastically reduce inductance to prevent the problems inductance causes: slowed down surge energy and unwanted heat.

So, how do these little marvels work their magic? How can something so small and seemingly simple cause so much efficiency?

planar laminated bus bar sealed edge
Planar Laminated Bus Bar with Sealed Edge

🔁 Mutual Inductance Cancellation: The Secret Weapon

If you stack multiple conductive layers that have current flowing through them in opposite directions, you will find something incredible happens: their magnetic fields cancel each other out. This is known as “mutual inductance cancellation”, and it slashes stray inductance to allow for fast and clean energy to flow directly to the load, right where it’s most needed.

🧠 Smarter Geometry = Better Performance

Laminated bus structures are geometrically optimized because they are made up of flat and tightly packed conductors. The loop area is reduced with the close spacing and parallel alignment—this all works together to reduce inductance. Simple, right? But with powerful results.

You could use a typical wire harness, but these are bulky, irregular, and full of loops that actually increase inductance. Why go backwards? Laminated bus bars are compact, predictable, and specifically engineered for precision.

pinched sealed laminated bus bar
Pinched Sealed Laminated Bus Bar

🔥 Less Heat, More Stability

Stray inductance not only slows you down, but it can also cause energy spikes, excess heat, and interference with sensitive electronics. Laminated busbars eliminate these issues. Between the conductive layers is a thin insulating layer (usually just 5-10 mil), which uses the opposing electromagnetic fields to cancel out stray fields and boost system stability.

⚡ Where They Shine

So, where do you use laminated bus bars? They are phenomenal for power electronics, EV systems, capacitor banks, and high frequency converters. And really, they are great for any system where fast and stable energy delivery is critical.

laminar laminated bus bar structure
Laminar Laminated Bus Bar Structure

🚀 Ready to Optimize?

Reduce inductance and gain speed, efficiency, and reliability with laminated bus structures. Whether you’re building high-power switching systems or refining your capacitor discharge path, they are here to help and make your project operations sail smoothly.

Ready to get started? Contact us at Hill Technical Sales. We can take even a simple sketch of your setup and get you started on designing a solution that supercharges your surge delivery!

If you would like to check out a variety of products that we handle that will suit your needs, please visit our website and submit a quote at https://hill-tech.com/, contact us at 847-255-4400, fax us at (847) 255-0192, or email us at sales@hilltech.com. And be sure to look at our social media pages, linked below!

Hill Technical Sales provides expert design and implementation of quality components for Electrical Power Conversion & Distribution, Thermal Management, UV Curing, and High-Speed Industrial Imaging for more information:

Connect with us:              

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Understanding Rheostat vs. Potentiometer: Torostats Deep Dive

Posted on May 5, 2025 by Kimberly Underwood
Understanding Rheostat vs. Potentiometer: Torostats Deep Dive

In the previous post we covered the basics of rheostat vs. potentiometer. Now, let’s delve deeper into a specific, high-performance type: the Torostat. These aren’t your average variable resistors; they’re robust, versatile components designed for demanding applications. Let’s explore what makes rheostats vs. potentiometers special.

Rheostat vs. Potentiometer: A Quick Recap

Before we dive into the Torostats, let’s briefly revisit the core differences between rheostats and potentiometers:

  • Potentiometer: A three-terminal device primarily used for voltage control. It acts as a voltage divider, providing a variable output voltage proportional to the wiper position. Think volume control on your stereo.
  • Rheostat: A two-terminal device used for current control. It varies resistance to control current flow. Imagine a dimmer switch for a light.
torostats
Torostats

Introducing Torostats: The Heavy Hitters

Torostats are a unique breed of variable resistors, combining the functionality of both potentiometers and rheostats. Their robust design and extensive features make them ideal for industrial and scientific applications where reliability and precision are paramount.

Key Features and Advantages:

  • High Power Handling: These torostats boast high wattage ratings (from 25W to 500W), making them suitable for high-current applications where standard potentiometers would fail. The data sheet details specific wattage ratings for different models (PR25, PR50, PR100, etc.).
  • Versatile Applications: These are used for a wide range of applications, including generator field control, lamp dimming, motor speed control, and more. Their adaptability makes them a valuable asset in various industrial settings.
  • Durable Construction: The toroidal winding is embedded in a vitreous enamel, providing excellent heat dissipation and preventing “hot spots.” The use of high-grade resistance alloy wire or tape ensures longevity and reliability even under heavy use.
  • Customizable Options: Torostats offer numerous customization options. You can choose from single or multi-gang configurations, open or enclosed designs, and various knob and dial styles. Special features like graded windings for improved linearity and automatic switches are also available.
  • Precise Control: The specifications in the data sheet clearly detail the angular rotation, tolerance, and operating torque of different models. This level of precision is crucial for applications where exact control is paramount.
torostats
Torostats

Types and Specifications:

See the product data sheet for detailed dimensions, ratings, and temperature curves for various models. These specifications allow engineers to select the most appropriate torostat for their specific application based on power requirements, operating temperature, and size constraints. Consult is for specific details on the PR25, PR50, PR100, PR150, PR225, PR300, and PR500 models.

Choosing the Right Torostat:

Selecting the correct Torostat involves considering several factors:

  • Power Requirements: Determine the maximum wattage and current needed for your application.
  • Operating Temperature: Account for ambient temperature and the device’s temperature rise. De-rating may be necessary in higher-temperature environments.
  • Size and Mounting: Choose a size and mounting style (open, enclosed, front-of-board, etc.) that suits your project.

Why Hill Technical Sales?

Hill Technical Sales offers a comprehensive selection of Torostats and other high-quality electronic components. Our expertise and commitment to customer service make us a reliable partner for all your electronics needs. Whether you’re working on a large-scale industrial project or a more specialized application, we can help you find the perfect solution.

Conclusion

Torostats represent a significant advancement in variable resistor technology. Their robust construction, versatile features, and high-power handling capabilities make them a valuable asset for countless industrial and scientific applications. Understanding their unique features is key to leveraging their potential in your projects. Contact Hill Technical Sales today to learn more!

Contact Us!

To check out a variety of other products that we handle that could suit your needs, please visit our website and submit a quote at https://hill-tech.com/, or contact us at 847-255-4400, fax us at (847) 255-0192, or email us at sales@hilltech.com. And be sure to look at our social media pages, linked below!

Hill Technical Sales provides expert design and implementation of quality components for Electrical Power Conversion & Distribution, Thermal Management, UV Curing, and High-Speed Industrial Imaging for more information:

Connect with us:              

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Understanding Rheostat vs. Potentiometer: A Friendly Guide to These Important Components

Posted on April 23, 2025 by Kimberly Underwood
Understanding Rheostat vs. Potentiometer

If you’ve ever adjusted the volume on a radio or controlled the brightness of a lamp, you’ve likely encountered two essential components: potentiometers and rheostats. Though they may seem similar at first glance, these devices serve unique purposes and operate in distinct ways. At Hill Technical Sales, we specialize in providing high-quality components, making it worthwhile to dive deeper into these fascinating devices: let’s explore rheostat vs. potentiometer.

What Are Potentiometers and Rheostats?

A potentiometer is a three-terminal device used primarily for voltage control, while a rheostat is a two-terminal device designed to control current. The name “potentiometer” combines the concepts of “potential difference” and “metering,” reflecting its purpose as a voltage divider. In contrast, the term “rheostat” comes from Greek, meaning “current controlling device.” Both components play essential roles in various applications, from laboratories to industrial settings.

Key Differences Explained

  1. Operating Principle: A potentiometer operates as a voltage divider, allowing you to adjust the voltage output based on the position of a moving wiper along a resistive track. In contrast, a rheostat controls current by changing its resistance by modifying the wiper’s position along a resistive element.
  2. Terminal Count: Potentiometers have three terminals (two ends and one middle wiper), while rheostats utilize just two terminals. This fundamental difference impacts how these devices are wired in a circuit.
  3. Connection Types: Potentiometers are typically connected in parallel with a voltage source, allowing for simultaneous control. Rheostats, on the other hand, are connected in series with the load and source, controlling the current that passes through them.
  4. Functionality: A potentiometer’s primary role is voltage division, making it ideal for applications like volume control in audio devices or adjusting settings in televisions. Rheostats are most often used in applications where current control is necessary, such as in fans or motors.
  5. Applications: Potentiometers are utilized in low power situations (typically under one watt), such as in audio devices, while rheostats excel in high power environments (over one watt) like industrial machinery or large appliance controls.
  6. Materials and Construction: Both components come in various types and materials. Potentiometers may use graphite, carbon particles, or cermet for their resistive elements, while rheostats are often made from heavy-duty wire or metal ribbons to handle larger currents.

Types of Potentiometers

Potentiometers come in various forms, including:

  • Linear and Rotary: Linear potentiometers vary resistance directly with the slide, whereas rotary potentiometers involve turning a knob to adjust.
  • Slider Potentiometers: Often found in audio equipment, these allow for quick adjustments along a linear path.
  • Digital Potentiometers: These modern variations provide precise control in digital circuits, enhancing usability in complex applications.

Why Choose Hill Technical Sales?

At Hill Technical Sales, we recognize the importance of high-quality components in your electronic projects. Whether you’re in need of potentiometers, rheostats, or other electronic components, we have a wide selection to fit your needs. Our commitment to quality ensures that you receive reliable products that perform smoothly in any application.

Final Thoughts

Understanding the differences between rheostat vs. potentiometer opens new possibilities for your projects. From controlling voltage to regulating current, these components are crucial to the functionality of countless devices. If you’re considering integrating these components into your work, look no further than Hill Technical Sales as your trusted source.

Contact Us!

If you would like to inquire about our safe, reliable, and efficient contactors and relays, or check out a variety of other products that we handle that could suit your needs, please visit our website and submit a quote at https://hill-tech.com/, or contact us at 847-255-4400, fax us at (847) 255-0192, or email us at sales@hilltech.com. And be sure to look at our social media pages, linked below!

Hill Technical Sales provides expert design and implementation of quality components for Electrical Power Conversion & Distribution, Thermal Management, UV Curing, and High-Speed Industrial Imaging for more information:

Connect with us:              

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ACTExpo 2025

Posted on April 15, 2025 by Kimberly Underwood

The Advanced Clean Transportation Expo (ACTExpo) 2025 is in a few weeks, and Hill Technical Sales will be attending! Join us at the Anaheim Convention Center in Anaheim, CA from April 28-30. We will be at Durakool’s Booth 5290.

Looking for reliable, high-performance components for your automotive projects? Durakool offers a comprehensive range of cutting-edge products designed to meet the demands of modern vehicles, including (EV) electric and emergency service applications.

Explore their impressive lineup:

  • High Voltage DC Contactors & Safe Switching DC Relays
  • Low Voltage DC Contactors and Relays (LVDC)
  • Automotive Mini & Maxi ISO Relay Sockets, Mounting Brackets, and Silicone Gaskets
  • Solid State Relays (SSR) and Contactors
  • Heatsinks specifically designed for SSRs
  • Relays for Emergency Vehicle Flashing Lights, including spotlights and sidelights—featuring continuous current PCB and subminiature relays with AgSnOInO contacts, optimized for motor and lamp loads. These are available in both open-frame and sealed versions.

What sets Durakool apart? Their experienced team provides tailored technical support and offers custom solutions to ensure the components perfectly match your application needs.

Stop by our booth at the ACTExpo 2025 to learn more and chat with us about how Durakool’s innovative and dependable products can elevate your next project!

If you would like to check out a variety of products that we handle that will suit your needs, please visit our website and submit a quote at https://hill-tech.com/, contact us at 847-255-4400, fax us at (847) 255-0192, or email us at sales@hilltech.com. And be sure to look at our social media pages, linked below!

Hill Technical Sales provides expert design and implementation of quality components for Electrical Power Conversion & Distribution, Thermal Management, UV Curing, and High-Speed Industrial Imaging for more information:

Connect with us:              

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