12V circuit breaker ?

[batt]

I am in the process of up grading the wiring and charging system. I am replacing with a Progressive Dynamics 4045 and am going to place the 50amp braker in line but got to wondering how you would know it had burned ? When this happens is it obvious? Wondering since it looks encased in its plastic cover.

[HowieE]

Some inline breakers are self resetting and there for give no visual indication. This type of breaker is a thermal type that trips on heat from high current rather than the household type that trip on shorts of high current.

[batt]

Originally Posted by HowieE

Some inline breakers are self resetting and there for give no visual indication. This type of breaker is a thermal type that trips on heat from high current rather than the household type that trip on shorts of high current.

So I am wondering how would you know where you have a problem if you have a fuse which give no visual indication of having tripped or burned and can reset itself ? Isn't that the primary reason for an indicator?

Sorry just don't want to be trying to find something that I can't see. I know technology changes but sometimes for the worse , and now wonder if the old glass fuse that is visually burnt isn't the best way to go .

[TG Twinkie]

If you want a visual indication I would suggest you install an AGU type fuse holder with the appropriate size fuse for your needs.

[idroba]

I also like "real fuses" that actually open and do not self reset. That way when it blows, you know something is wrong and the circuit stays off until you replace the fuse. With the self reseting automotive type circuit breakers, they cycle on and off, on and off, multiple times, each time taking current, heating up wires, and potentially causing further problems.

The switch type circuit breakers we are familiar with in our homes are available in DC rated versions, but are hard to come by and are quite expensive.

I like the blade type Maxi fuses that are available now. Finding the high amp glass fuses that were used in the AS for many years is becoming more and more difficult, especially out on the road. Maxi blade type fuses are commonly available now in most auto parts places.

[garry]

If I'm not mistaken the Progressive Dynamics 4045 is a combination box with a 30 amp main on the AC side with 5 branch circuits and up to 12 individual fused branches on the DC side so there is no provision to install a main on the DC side.

5 AC breakers plus a 30 amp main for AC requirements.

plus

12 each 12VDC fused outputs on the DC side.

If you are fusing battery output there are 12VDC CB's that look very much like your home CB's.
Many selections in the marine industry.