ISO 8820-13:2020

Overview

ISO 8820-13:2020 specifies fuse-links with tabs (blade type) Type P (sub miniature three tabs) for use in road vehicles. The standard defines rated values, test procedures, performance requirements and dimensional specifications for blade fuses intended for automotive electrical systems. It applies to fuse-links with a rated voltage of 32 V, current ratings ≤ 30 A and a breaking capacity of 1 000 A. ISO 8820-13 is designed to be used together with ISO 8820‑1 and ISO 8820‑2.

Key topics and technical requirements

• Rated parameters: Rated voltage 32 V DC, current ratings up to 30 A, breaking capacity 1 000 A.
• Test procedures: Aligns with ISO 8820‑1 test methods and includes specific tests for Type P:
  • Voltage drop measured across tabs (limits vary by rated current).
  • Transient current cycling (defined on/off profile and limits).
  • Operating time‑rating tests at multiple multiples of rated current (e.g., 1.1 I, 1.35 I, 1.6 I, 2.0 I, 3.5 I, 6.0 I) with minimum/maximum operating times.
  • Breaking capacity test: interrupt 1 000 A at 32 VDC with time constant up to 2.5 ms.
  • Terminal strength tests: specified forces (e.g., 50 N, 10 N, 5 N) and deformation limits.
  • Temperature rise and environmental (climatic, chemical, mechanical) requirements.
• Design and dimensions: Detailed dimensional limits and designation example for Type P blade fuses.
• Marking and colour coding: Colour codes provided by rated current (e.g., 3 A violet, 10 A red, 15 A blue) to support interchangeability and identification.
• Safety features: Requirement for visible evidence of an open fuse element after operation.

Practical applications

• Ensures reliable, repeatable performance of automotive blade fuses used in passenger cars, light commercial vehicles and similar road vehicles.
• Helps manufacturers design fuse-links and receptacles that are mechanically and electrically compatible.
• Enables component selection for vehicle electrical circuits up to 30 A where compact, sub‑miniature blade fuses (three‑tab Type P) are required.
• Supports validation of fuse performance under short-circuit, transient and environmental stresses for safety and regulatory compliance.

Who should use this standard

• Automotive OEMs and Tier 1 suppliers (electrical system designers)
• Fuse manufacturers and component designers
• Test laboratories and certification bodies
• Procurement, quality and compliance teams specifying automotive electrical components

Related standards

• ISO 8820‑1 - Definitions and general test requirements (normative reference)
• ISO 8820‑2 - (use in conjunction where applicable)

Keywords: ISO 8820-13, automotive fuse, Type P blade fuse, sub miniature three tabs, 32 V, 1000 A breaking capacity, fuse standards, voltage drop, operating time-rating.