What a Bussmann cross reference does
A Bussmann cross reference is a tool that matches a fuse from one manufacturer to an equivalent fuse made by Bussmann, or matches a Bussmann fuse to its equivalent from another brand. Fuses do the same job — they break an electrical circuit when current gets too high — but different manufacturers use different part numbers, sizes, and physical designs. A cross reference tells you which fuses are electrically and physically interchangeable, so you can find the right replacement without guessing.
The most common reason to use a cross reference is that you have a fuse that failed, you know its part number or brand, but you need to find what Bussmann makes that will work in its place. Or you already use Bussmann fuses and need to know what equivalent another brand offers. Cross references save you from buying the wrong fuse or making an unnecessary trip to a supplier.
Key Takeaways
- Bussmann cross references match fuses by amperage, voltage rating, physical size, and response time, not just by part number.
- You can search Bussmann's online cross reference tool by entering the original fuse's part number, amperage, or manufacturer name.
- Physical fuse type — cartridge, blade, cylindrical, or specialty — must match between the original and replacement, or it will not fit in the holder.
- Voltage rating and response time (fast, medium, or slow) must also match the circuit's requirements, or the fuse may fail to protect the equipment.
- If you cannot find an exact cross reference, contact a Bussmann distributor or the equipment manufacturer before substituting a different fuse.
How to use Bussmann's online cross reference tool
Bussmann publishes a searchable cross reference database on its website. Start by gathering the information from the fuse you need to replace: the part number (printed on the fuse itself), the amperage rating, the voltage, and the manufacturer's name if you know it. You can search by any of these fields.
Enter what you know into the search box on Bussmann's cross reference page. If you have the original part number, that is the fastest route — type it in and the tool will show you the Bussmann equivalent and any other brands that match. If you only know the amperage and voltage, you can search by those instead, though you may get multiple results. The tool will display the physical type (cartridge, blade, etc.), the response time, and the voltage rating for each match.
Write down the Bussmann part number before you leave the page. Distributors and retailers use part numbers to locate stock, so having the exact number prevents confusion when you order.
Understanding fuse types and why they matter for cross references
Fuses come in several physical shapes, and a cross reference will only work if the replacement fuse fits into the holder designed for the original. The most common types are cartridge fuses (cylindrical, with metal caps on both ends), blade fuses (flat, with two metal prongs that push into a socket), and specialty fuses for specific equipment like automotive or industrial applications.
If you try to use a blade fuse where a cartridge fuse belongs, it will not fit, and you cannot force it. A cross reference tool will show you the physical type of each match, so you can confirm the replacement will fit before you buy. If the cross reference shows multiple options, they are all the same physical type and will work in the same holder.
Voltage and response time in a cross reference
Two fuses can have the same amperage but different voltage ratings. A fuse rated for 250 volts will not safely protect a 600-volt circuit, and vice versa. The cross reference will list the voltage for each match. Check that the replacement fuse's voltage rating is equal to or higher than the circuit's voltage — never lower.
Response time is how fast the fuse reacts to overcurrent. Fast-acting fuses (sometimes called quick-blow) break almost when ready when current spikes. Slow-acting fuses (time-delay) tolerate brief surges and only break if the high current continues. Using the wrong response time can cause the fuse to blow during normal operation (if you use fast-acting where slow is needed) or fail to protect the equipment (if you use slow-acting where fast is needed). The cross reference will label the response time for each option. Match it to what the original fuse was, or check the equipment manual if you are unsure.
When a direct cross reference is not available
Occasionally a fuse is so old or specialized that it does not appear in Bussmann's cross reference database. This happens with discontinued fuses, military-spec fuses, or fuses for equipment that is no longer in production. Do not guess at a substitute — using the wrong fuse can damage equipment or create a fire hazard.
Contact a Bussmann distributor with the original fuse's part number and specifications. Distributors have access to historical cross reference data and can often find a match even when the online tool does not. If that fails, reach out to the equipment manufacturer. They know what fuses their equipment was designed to use and can recommend a safe replacement, even if it is not a Bussmann product.
Where to find Bussmann fuses after you have the part number
Once you have the Bussmann part number from the cross reference, you can order from electrical distributors, online retailers, or local electronics suppliers. Bussmann is a major manufacturer, so most distributors stock common amperage and voltage ratings. Specialty fuses or unusual sizes may need to be ordered and may take a few days to arrive.
If you are in a hurry, call ahead to confirm the distributor has the part in stock before you visit. Providing the part number over the phone makes the search when ready and prevents a wasted trip.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a fuse with a higher amperage rating if I cannot find the exact one?
No. A higher amperage fuse will not break when it should, leaving the circuit unprotected. This can damage equipment or cause a fire. Always use the exact amperage rating shown in the cross reference or on the original fuse. If you cannot find it, contact a distributor or the equipment maker.
What if the cross reference shows multiple Bussmann part numbers?
Multiple matches usually mean different manufacturers make equivalent fuses, or Bussmann offers the same fuse under different part numbers for different markets. All listed options are electrically and physically the same. Pick whichever part number is easiest for you to order — they will all work the same way.
Does a cross reference work both ways — can I use it to find non-Bussmann fuses?
Yes. If you search by a Bussmann part number, the tool will show you equivalent fuses from other manufacturers. This is useful if a Bussmann fuse is out of stock and you need a replacement quickly from a brand your local supplier carries.
What if I lose the original fuse and do not know its part number?
Look at the fuse holder or the equipment manual — the amperage and voltage are usually printed there. You can search the cross reference by amperage and voltage alone, though you may get multiple results. Narrow the results by confirming the physical type (cartridge, blade, etc.) matches your holder, and check the response time against the manual if possible.