Littelfuse SAO015 - 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

SAO015

Alternate Item Number: 0SAO015.Z

UPC: 079458400687


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Overview

Ensure electrical safety and National Electric Code (NEC) compliance with the Littelfuse SAO015 Type S Adapter. This essential component is designed to retrofit existing Edison-base fuseholders, transforming them to accept only Type S fuses. The NEC mandates this upgrade for all new Edison-base fuseholder installations and permits Edison-base fuses only for replacements in existing systems where overfusing or tampering is not evident. The Littelfuse SAO015 adapter provides a robust and permanent solution to prevent the installation of incorrect fuse sizes. Once securely screwed into an Edison-base fuseholder, the SAO015 adapter cannot be removed, guaranteeing a secure and compliant setup. This design is critical for preventing dangerous practices such as shunting open fuses, which bypass the protective function of the fuse, or overfusing, which installs a fuse with a higher current rating than the circuit can safely handle. By eliminating these risks, the SAO015 adapter significantly reduces nuisance fuse openings and enhances overall system reliability and safety. For optimal performance and protection, it is strongly recommended to pair the SAO015 adapter with properly rated Littelfuse SLO or SOO series fuses. This combination ensures that your electrical circuits are protected by fuses that are precisely matched to the circuit's requirements, as dictated by the NEC. Upgrading all Edison-base fuseholders in existing installations with SAO adapters is a proactive step towards modernizing electrical safety standards and mitigating potential hazards. Key benefits of the Littelfuse SAO015 Type S Adapter include: * **NEC Compliance:** Meets current National Electric Code requirements for fuseholder safety. * **Prevents Incorrect Fuse Installation:** Ensures only the correct Type S fuse can be inserted, eliminating the risk of using wrong-sized fuses. * **Enhanced Safety:** Guards against shunting of open fuses and overfusing, reducing fire and electrical shock hazards. * **Reduced Nuisance Tripping:** Minimizes unnecessary fuse blowouts due to improper fuse selection. * **Permanent Installation:** Once installed, the adapter is permanent, providing long-term safety and reliability. * **Cost-Effective Upgrade:** An economical way to bring older electrical installations up to modern safety standards. This adapter is an indispensable tool for electricians, maintenance professionals, and facility managers seeking to enhance the safety and code compliance of residential, commercial, and industrial electrical systems. Trust Littelfuse, a global leader in circuit protection, for reliable and high-quality electrical components. The SKU SAO015 signifies a commitment to robust design and dependable performance in critical electrical applications.
  • NEC compliant adapter for Edison-base fuseholders
  • Prevents installation of incorrect fuse sizes
  • Eliminates risk of overfusing and shunting
  • Permanent installation for lasting safety
  • Recommended for use with SLO/SOO series fuses

Specifications

Application
General purpose circuits and small motor loads
Brand Name
Littelfuse
Series
SAO
Special Features
Feature metal threads
Sub Brand
SAO Series
Type
Plug Fuse Adapter
Package Weight (Imperial)
0.043 L
Package Weight (Metric)
0.020 kg
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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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.