Q1. What is a J Type Fuse?
A J Type Fuse is a wedge-contact electricity supply distribution fuse-link designed for use in UK a.c. electricity supply networks at 400/415V. Lawson Type J fuse-links are installed in LV distribution boards, feeder pillars, link boxes, pole-mounted cut-outs, and heavy-duty service intakes throughout the UK distribution network. The Type J is available in four formats — the JPU (82mm Fuse), JSU (92mm Fuse), JHU (76mm), and JF (cylindrical) — covering current ratings from 20A to 800A with an 80kA breaking capacity at 415V a.c.
Q2. What is a Wedge Type Fuse?
A Wedge Type Fuse is a fuse-link that uses wedge-shaped contacts to create a secure, low-resistance mechanical and electrical connection when inserted into a fuse carrier. The wedge contact design draws the contact surfaces firmly together under spring or mechanical pressure, maintaining a reliable, stable connection throughout the service life of the fuse. The Lawson Type J is a Wedge Type Fuse specifically designed for use in UK electricity supply distribution equipment with standard 76mm, 82mm, and 92mm fixing centre bases.
Q3. What is a Distribution Fuse?
A Distribution Fuse is a high-current fuse-link used within electricity supply distribution networks to protect LV distribution circuits, cables, and service connections from overload and short-circuit faults. The Lawson Type J Distribution Fuse is rated at 415V a.c. with an 80kA breaking capacity and covers the full range of current ratings from 20A to 800A required for UK LV distribution applications. It is the standard Distribution Fuse specified by UK Distribution Network Operators (DNOs) and Independent Connection Providers (ICPs) for LV network fusing.
Q4. What is the difference between an 82mm Fuse (JPU) and a 92mm Fuse (JSU)?
The 82mm and 92mm designations refer to the fixing centres — the distance between the two contact fixing points — of the J Type Fuse. The 82mm Fuse (JPU series) has 82mm (3¼ inch) fixing centres and is rated up to 630A, used in standard distribution equipment with 82mm bases. The 92mm Fuse (JSU series) has 92mm (3⅝ inch) fixing centres and is rated up to 800A, used in higher-current applications and in distribution equipment with 92mm bases. The fixing centre must match the fuse carrier and base in the installation — the two sizes are not interchangeable.
Q5. What is the current range available for the Type J J Type Fuse?
The full Lawson Type J Distribution Fuse range covers ratings from 20A to 800A across the four series. The JPU (82mm Fuse) covers 20A–630A. The JSU (92mm Fuse) covers 20A–800A. The JHU (76mm) covers 20A–315A. The JF cylindrical covers 20A–315A. Additional non-standardised current ratings are also available — contact the Lawson Fuses sales team for details.
Q6. What breaking capacity does the Lawson Type J Distribution Fuse have?
The Lawson Type J J Type Fuse has a breaking capacity of 80kA at 415V a.c. — tested and certified in compliance with IEC 60269-2 and BS 88-2. This is sufficient to safely interrupt the maximum prospective fault currents likely to be encountered at LV distribution points on the UK electricity supply network.
Q7. What standards does the Type J Wedge Type Fuse comply with?
The Lawson Type J Distribution Fuse complies with IEC 60269-2 and BS 88-2 (the international and British Standards for low-voltage fuse-links for industrial and electricity supply applications), as well as BS 7656 which specifies the additional current ratings and performance requirements for UK electricity supply distribution fuse-links. All products are ASTA Certified under the ASTA 20 Authorisation Scheme.
Q8. Where is the J Type Fuse installed?
The Lawson Type J J Type Fuse is installed throughout the UK LV electricity distribution network in distribution boards, feeder pillars, link boxes, pole-mounted cut-outs on overhead distribution lines, and heavy-duty service intakes for large commercial and industrial premises. It is specified and used by UK Distribution Network Operators (DNOs), Independent Connection Providers (ICPs), local authorities, and approved electrical contractors carrying out work on the LV electricity supply network.
Q9. Are there any restrictions on the use of JPU 450–630A and JSU 800A fuse-links?
Yes. The JPU 450A, 500A, 560A, and 630A 82mm Fuse variants are restricted to intermittent loading when installed in 400A fixed contacts. The JSU 800A 92mm Fuse is restricted to intermittent loading when installed in 630A fixed contacts. The JSU 800A also extends beyond the current ratings covered by IEC 60269-2 and BS 88-2 (which specify performance requirements up to 630A fixed contacts), though its performance complies with the Breaking Range and Utilisation Category gG. Always refer to the product information sheet and relevant network specifications before selecting these extended ratings.
Q10. What fuse carriers are compatible with the Lawson Type J Distribution Fuse?
The Lawson Type J J Type Fuse is designed for use with the Lawson Type FH fuse carriers — the FH 82 for JPU series 82mm Fuse links (up to 400A) and the FH 92 for JSU series 92mm Fuse links (up to 630A). These wedge-type fuse carriers are tested and certified as a complete system with the Type J fuse-links to IEC 60269-2 and BS 88-2.
Q11. How do I order the Lawson Type J J Type Fuse or Distribution Fuse?
The full Lawson Type J Wedge Type Fuse, 82mm Fuse, 92mm Fuse, and Distribution Fuse range is available through the Lawson Fuses sales team and their network of authorised sales partners and electrical wholesalers across the UK. Contact Lawson Fuses directly for trade pricing, availability by current rating and fixing centre, and technical support for your electricity distribution installation or network maintenance project.