Compact 4-Channel e-Fuse Targets Industrial Power Distribution

Industrial automation systems frequently suffer from unexpected downtime and localized faults caused by overloads in 24VDC power distribution networks. Traditional protection schemes using thermal-magnetic circuit breakers or standard fuses often lack the fine-grained selectivity, fast reaction times, and communication features required to protect sensitive downstream electronics without interrupting entire production lines. Managing high capacitive loads and transient startup currents without triggering nuisance trips remains a persistent design challenge for electrical engineers in factory automation and process control cabinets.

To address this challenge, RECOM has introduced the RACPRO1-4SP/BS, a compact electronic 4-channel fuse (e-Fuse) engineered to expand the company's RACPRO product family. Designed specifically for industrial 24VDC power distribution, the unit measures only 22mm in width while providing four independently protected outputs. It is available in two variants: the RACPRO1-4SP/24V/5A/BS (4 x 5A) and the RACPRO1-4SP/24V/10A/BS (4 x 10A). Each channel operates with its own dedicated overcurrent limit, ensuring that a fault on a single branch circuit does not affect the remaining active channels.

System Architecture and Operating Principle
The RACPRO1-4SP/BS utilizes solid-state switching and precise current sensing to monitor output branches continuously. To handle transient operational events, the e-Fuse provides a 150 percent power boost capability for up to 5 seconds and tolerates overloads exceeding 150 percent for up to 100 milliseconds, preventing nuisance tripping during motor starts or capacitive charging phases.

The module maintains full output power up to an ambient temperature of 60 degrees Celsius. Safe startup of highly capacitive loads is achieved through a controlled output voltage ramp-up combined with a sequential channel startup routine featuring a 50-millisecond delay between channels. In total system overload conditions, the unit shuts down channels in reverse priority order, ensuring critical, prioritized loads remain energized for as long as possible.

Users can configure fault response behavior between latching tripping mode and smart hiccup mode. During recurring overloads, smart hiccup mode progressively extends the time interval between restart attempts, minimizing both electrical and thermal stress on the semiconductor switches and connected system components. Diagnostic features include individual channel status LEDs, manual on-off channel control, offline current limit configuration, and a centralized DC-OK signal alongside a remote reset input. Push-in terminal connectors facilitate rapid, tool-free wiring during assembly.

Industrial Use Cases and Applications
The RACPRO1-4SP/BS is deployed within control cabinets across several demanding industrial sectors, including industrial and factory automation, building and process automation, power distribution networks, intralogistics, and general infrastructure engineering. By integrating selective channel monitoring and sequential startup into a 22mm-wide footprint, the module optimizes DIN rail space while safeguarding sensitive programmable logic controllers, sensors, and actuators against localized short circuits and prolonged overloads.

The unit complies with safety standards, carrying certifications according to IEC/EN/UL 62368-1. Manufacturing takes place in Europe, and the product is backed by a three-year manufacturer warranty.

Michael Peters, Product Manager at RECOM, notes that the device integrates core functions required for field applications, noting that the compact architecture, individual channel protection, and straightforward handling simplify 24VDC load protection in industrial environments.

Trade Shows
RECOM presented the RACPRO1-4SP/BS at electronica Munich 2026, held from November 10 to 13, 2026, in Munich, Germany, at Booth A5-302, and at SPS 2026, held from November 24 to 26, 2026, in Nuremberg, Germany, in Hall 10, Booth 338. Evaluation samples and OEM pricing are available through authorized distributors and directly from RECOM.

Additional Context:
This section details technical specifications and competitive benchmarking not included in the original product announcement.

Electronic fuses (e-Fuses) have largely displaced traditional thermal-magnetic circuit breakers and glass fuses in modern 24VDC industrial power distribution due to their sub-millisecond reaction times and semiconductor-based current limitation. Unlike mechanical breakers, which rely on bimetallic thermal bending or magnetic fields that can take seconds to trip under moderate overloads, electronic circuit protectors clamp current output instantly.

When benchmarked against legacy single-channel electronic circuit breakers, multi-channel modular e-Fuses such as the RACPRO1-4SP/BS provide significant panel space savings. A traditional four-channel setup using individual single-channel DIN-rail modules typically occupies 48mm to 60mm of rail width, whereas the RECOM unit consolidates four channels into a 22mm housing. This reduction in width lowers internal enclosure thermal buildup and accommodates high-density packaging in space-constrained control cabinets.

Standards such as IEC/EN/UL 62368-1 govern audio/video, information, and communication technology equipment safety, establishing rigorous insulation, creepage, and clearance requirements that protect operators from electrical shock hazards during maintenance. The inclusion of push-in terminal technology aligns with modern industrial standards for vibration-resistant, tool-less wiring, reducing installation labor time compared to traditional screw-clamp terminal blocks.

Edited by Sucithra Mani, Induportals editor – adapted by AI.

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