Littelfuse SAO002 - The National Electric Code now permits Edison-base fuses to be used only for replacements in existing installations, and then, only when there is no evidence of overfusing or tampering. All new Edison-based fuseholders must have Type S fuse adapters installed before they are placed in service. Designed to prevent installation of wrong size fuses, Type S Adapters (SAO series) screw into Edison-base fuseholders so they may accept Type S fuses. Once installed the adapters cannot be removed. To prevent shunting of open fuses or overfusing, and to reduce nuisance fuse opening, it is recommended that SAO adapters with properly rated SLO or SOO series fuses be installed in all Edison-base fuseholders.
Littelfuse

SAO002

Alternate Item Number: 0SAO002.Z

UPC: 079458400410

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Overview

The Littelfuse SAO002 Type S Adapter is a critical component for ensuring electrical safety and National Electric Code (NEC) compliance in industrial and commercial settings. Designed to retrofit existing Edison-base fuseholders, this adapter effectively prevents the installation of incorrect fuse sizes, a common cause of electrical hazards and system failures. The NEC now strictly limits the use of Edison-base fuses to replacement in existing installations only, and even then, only when there's no evidence of tampering or overfusing. For all new Edison-base fuseholder installations, Type S fuse adapters are mandatory before the unit is placed into service. The SAO002 series directly addresses this requirement. Installation of the Littelfuse SAO002 adapter is straightforward, screwing securely into standard Edison-base fuseholders. Once installed, the adapter becomes a permanent fixture, ensuring that only properly rated Type S fuses can be inserted. This design inherently prevents the dangerous practice of shunting open fuses, which bypasses the fuse's protective function and can lead to catastrophic equipment damage or fire. Furthermore, it significantly reduces the likelihood of nuisance fuse openings caused by using fuses with inadequate current ratings for the application. By upgrading Edison-base fuseholders with Littelfuse SAO002 Type S Adapters, facility managers, maintenance engineers, and electrical contractors can enhance the overall safety and reliability of their electrical distribution systems. This proactive measure is essential for preventing electrical overloads, short circuits, and potential arc flash incidents. The adapter's tamper-proof design adds an extra layer of security, ensuring that only qualified personnel can maintain the fuseholder, and only with the correct fuse type. For optimal performance and to maintain full compliance, it is strongly recommended to pair the SAO002 adapters with Littelfuse's own SLO or SOO series fuses. These fuse series are engineered to work seamlessly with the Type S adapter system, providing reliable overcurrent protection tailored to various industrial applications. Whether you are upgrading older electrical panels, performing routine maintenance, or ensuring new installations meet stringent safety standards, the Littelfuse SAO002 Type S Adapter is an indispensable solution. Its robust construction and permanent installation capability make it a cost-effective and long-term investment in electrical safety and operational integrity. Key Benefits: * Ensures NEC compliance for Edison-base fuseholders. * Prevents installation of incorrect fuse sizes. * Eliminates shunting of open fuses. * Reduces nuisance fuse openings. * Permanent, tamper-resistant installation. * Enhances overall electrical system safety and reliability. Applications: * Industrial facilities * Commercial buildings * Manufacturing plants * Retrofitting older electrical panels * Anywhere Edison-base fuseholders are present and require safety upgrades.
  • Converts Edison-base fuseholders to accept Type S fuses, ensuring NEC compliance.
  • Prevents the installation of incorrect fuse sizes, enhancing electrical safety.
  • Permanent installation design eliminates tampering and shunting of open fuses.
  • Reduces nuisance fuse openings by ensuring proper fuse rating selection.
  • Recommended for use with Littelfuse SLO or SOO series fuses for optimal protection.

Specifications

Application
General purpose circuits and small motor loads
Brand Name
Littelfuse
Special Features
Feature metal threads
Sub Brand
SAO Series
Type
Plug Fuse Adapter
Littelfuse Plug fuses provide overcurrent protection to general purpose circuits and small motor loads. Edison-base Plug fuses (TOO and TLO series) feature metal threads similar to incandescent lamp bases. Type S Plug fuses (SOO and SLO series) utilize a nonmetallic threaded base and must be used with Type S adapters (SAO series). The National Electrical Code permits Edison base Plug fuses to be used for replacement purposes only. Type S fuses and adapters prevent shunting open fuses and over-fusing.

TOO6.25

Littelfuse Plug fuses provide overcurrent protection to general purpose circuits and small motor loads. Edison-base Plug fuses (TOO and TLO series) feature metal threads similar to incandescent lamp bases. Type S Plug fuses (SOO and SLO series) utilize a nonmetallic threaded base and must be used with Type S adapters (SAO series). The National Electrical Code permits Edison base Plug fuses to be used for replacement purposes only. Type S fuses and adapters prevent shunting open fuses and over-fusing.
Mersen plug fuses are intended for industrial and residential applications. Non time-delay fuses are available for receptacle and lighting circuits and time-delay fuses for motor loads. For Canadian requirements, a type P fuse is used for non-motor loads and Type D, for electrical heating and cyclical load circuits. Both fuses have low melting-point temperature elements. Type S plug fuses are time-delay and tamper resistant. 125 Volts 15 Amps GP series. 125 Volts 20 Amps GTL series.

GTL20

Mersen plug fuses are intended for industrial and residential applications. Non time-delay fuses are available for receptacle and lighting circuits and time-delay fuses for motor loads. For Canadian requirements, a type P fuse is used for non-motor loads and Type D, for electrical heating and cyclical load circuits. Both fuses have low melting-point temperature elements. Type S plug fuses are time-delay and tamper resistant. 125 Volts 15 Amps GP series. 125 Volts 20 Amps GTL series.
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TR10B400

RTNG PLUG 400A/1000CT MVT PLUS

Frequently Asked Questions about Littelfuse

What certifications and standards do Littelfuse products comply with?

Littelfuse products are certified to multiple international standards, including UL (Underwriters Laboratories), CSA (Canadian Standards Association), CCC (China Compulsory Certification), and EAC (Eurasian Conformity). Customers can verify specific product certifications by consulting individual product datasheets on Littelfuse.com, which provide comprehensive details about standards compliance for each component.

What industries and applications are Littelfuse products used for?

Littelfuse products are critical for electrical protection and safety across multiple industrial sectors, including manufacturing, automation, power distribution, and electrical control systems. Their comprehensive product portfolio serves industries that require robust electrical protection, including motor and pump applications, solar installations, programmable logic controllers (PLCs), electrical switch panels, and critical infrastructure environments. Key product lines protect against overcurrent, voltage transients, ground faults, and temperature-related electrical risks, ensuring equipment safety and operational reliability.

What technical support does Littelfuse offer?

Littelfuse offers comprehensive technical support through multiple channels. Their Technical Hotline (800-TEC-FUSE) provides direct access to engineers who can help identify issues and recommend solutions. Additionally, Littelfuse offers extensive online Technical Resources at Littelfuse.com, including datasheets, product manuals, whitepapers, application guides, and online design tools. Their experienced product and application engineers also provide step-by-step support from design to installation.

What are the main product lines offered by Littelfuse?

Littelfuse offers comprehensive industrial protection and control product lines, including fuses, fuse holders, protection relays, temperature sensors, and electrical safety components. Their key product categories span surge protective devices, custom OEM products, electrical switch panels, medium voltage fuses, ground-fault protection relays, motor and pump protection devices, and temperature sensors. These products are designed to minimize electrical safety hazards, limit equipment damage, improve productivity, and safeguard personnel from electrical faults.

What are the key features of Littelfuse products?

Littelfuse products feature exceptional circuit protection technologies with key characteristics including UL/IEC safety standard compliance, low internal resistance, and advanced protective capabilities across multiple product lines. Their components provide critical protection for industrial systems, offering features like overcurrent protection, voltage transient suppression, and resettable protection devices with ultra-low resistance and compact designs. Key product lines include fuses, metal oxide varistors (MOVs), TVS diodes, PolySwitch devices, and specialized electronic protection components that enhance system reliability and safety.

What environmental ratings do Littelfuse products have?

Littelfuse products feature comprehensive environmental ratings, including NEMA Type 1, 2, 3, 3R, 4/4X, 12, and 13 certifications, as well as IP65 protection. These ratings ensure superior protection in diverse industrial environments, with an operating temperature range of -40°F to +131°F (-40°C to +55°C). Many products also include UV-stabilized materials and neoprene gaskets for enhanced durability in outdoor and challenging conditions.

What accessories are available for Littelfuse products?

Littelfuse offers several key accessories across their product lines, including fuse holders, voltage monitoring modules, and terminal connectors. Specific accessories include the LPSM003ZXID (indicating) and LPSM003Z (non-indicating) POWR-SAFE Dead Front fuse holders for Class CC and Midget-Style fuses, the VRM6048 voltage monitor accessory module, and female quick connect terminals (P1015 series) in various wire gauge sizes. These accessories are designed to enhance protection, monitoring, and connectivity for Littelfuse electrical components.

What is Littelfuse's warranty policy?

Littelfuse provides comprehensive warranty details on their official website at www.littelfuse.com/warranty. Customers should visit this page to review the specific warranty terms and conditions for their specific product lines. For direct warranty support or questions, customers can contact Littelfuse Technical Support at 1-800-TEC-FUSE or email [email protected].

What communication protocols do Littelfuse products support?

Littelfuse supports a comprehensive range of industrial communication protocols, including PROFIBUS, PROFINET, EtherNet/IP, DeviceNet, Modbus RTU, and CANopen. Our products provide flexible connectivity solutions across multiple industrial automation platforms, enabling seamless integration with various control systems and network architectures.

How are Littelfuse products typically installed?

Littelfuse products are typically installed using specialized mounting hardware like fuse holders, blocks, and panels designed for specific industrial applications. The POWR-SAFE Dead Front holders, for example, provide optimum protection for Class CC and Midget-Style fuses, supporting installations up to 600 VAC/DC. Installation often involves using precision terminals with strain relief, such as 0.25 in. female quick connect terminals, to ensure secure and safe electrical connections in industrial control systems.