Fused Spurs

Fused spurs, also known as fused connection units (FCUs), are essential electrical devices used in wiring installations to ensure a safe and controlled connection between the main electricity supply and fixed electrical appliances or equipment. Widely used in Malaysia, the UK, as well as other countries that follow similar wiring regulations, these units incorporate a built-in fuse that offers critical overcurrent protection. This safeguards both the connected appliance and the wiring from damage due to electrical faults or overloads.

RS Malaysia offers a wide range of fused connection solutions, from unswitched fused connection units to single switched fused spurs, ensuring reliable and compliant connections for your projects.

What Are the Benefits of Fused Spurs?

Fused spurs offer several key advantages that make them indispensable in electrical installations:

• Power Control: Switched fused spurs enable control of power supply to specific electrical devices or appliances. This allows for convenient isolation without affecting other circuits.
• Fuse Protection: Every fused connection unit has a built-in fuse, which acts as a safety measure to protect the connected device and the wiring from excessive current. This prevents damage and reduces fire hazards.
• Connection Point: Fused spurs serve as a connection point between the fixed wiring in a building and individual electrical devices. This simplifies installation and ensures a tidy, compliant setup.
• Flexibility: Fused connection units can be installed with either a switched or unswitched configuration, depending on the specific application.

What Are the Types of Fused Spurs?

There are generally two main types of fused spurs or fused connection units: switched fused spurs and unswitched fused spurs.

Switched Fused Spurs

These units incorporate an on/off switch, allowing you to control the power supply to the connected device directly at the spur. They are commonly used in applications where you need the ability to isolate the device without affecting other electrical circuits. The switch typically has a clear "on" and "off" position, making it easy to determine the power status.

Unswitched Fused Spurs

As the name suggests, unswitched fused connection units do not have an on/off switch. They provide a fused connection point for appliances or devices but do not include a switch for direct control of the power supply. Unswitched fused spurs are typically used when a separate switch is already present in the electrical installation or when control is not required at the spur itself.

What Is a Fused Spur and How Does It Work?

A fused spur is a fixed electrical connection with a built-in fuse, designed to safely power appliances that do not require a full socket outlet, such as electric heaters, boilers, or integrated kitchen appliances. It works by protecting the connected device with a dedicated fuse, which acts as a sacrificial component. Should an excessive current flow through the circuit, the fuse wire within the connection unit melts, breaking the circuit and preventing damage to the appliance or potential fire hazards. This ensures a localised safety mechanism for permanently wired appliances.

Fused Spurs with Switch vs. Without Switch

The choice between fused spurs with a switch and those without depends entirely on the application's specific requirements.

Switched fused spurs offer the distinct advantage of providing immediate and visible isolation for the connected appliance. This direct local control is invaluable for devices requiring frequent power cycling, servicing, or emergency shutdown such as appliances like washing machines, dishwashers, or kitchen hobs, where an accessible on/off function at the point of use enhances safety during operation or maintenance.

Conversely, unswitched fused connection units are ideal for equipment that should remain constantly powered for critical functions, such as security alarm systems, central heating boilers, refrigeration units, or fire detection systems. In such scenarios, the absence of a local switch minimises the risk of accidental power disruption, safeguarding essential operations and preventing unintended outages.

How to Install a Fused Spur

Installing a fused spur requires careful adherence to electrical safety regulations and should be performed by a qualified electrician to ensure compliance and safety. Here are the basic steps involved:

1. Isolate Power: Before commencing any work, the mains power supply to the circuit must be completely isolated at the consumer unit (fuse box). Verify using the suitable electronics test equipment like a voltage tester to ensure that the power is off.
2. Connect the Spur to the Ring Main: The fused spur is typically wired into an existing ring main circuit. This involves making secure connections for the live, neutral, and earth wires from the ring main to the corresponding terminals within the connection unit.
3. Fit the Fuse: Insert the correct amperage fuse into the designated fuse holder within the fused connection unit. The fuse rating must be appropriate for the connected appliance and should not exceed the cable's current-carrying capacity (e.g., a 13A fused spur for standard appliances).
4. Connect the Appliance: Next, wire the appliance's flexible cable to the load terminals of the fused spur, ensuring correct polarity (live to live, neutral to neutral, earth to earth).
5. Fix the Faceplate: Once all connections are made and checked, the faceplate of the fused spur should be securely fixed to the wall box.
6. Test the Circuit: Restore power at the consumer unit and test the fused spur and connected appliance for correct operation and safety.

Explore our guide for more information on fused spurs and safe electrical installations.

Industrial Applications of Fused Spurs

Fused spurs are integral to a multitude of industrial and commercial settings across Malaysia, providing safe and localised power solutions.

• Manufacturing and Industrial Facilities: In manufacturing plants, fused connection units are vital for powering fixed machinery, production lines, and heavy-duty equipment, offering essential individual circuit protection.
• Commercial Kitchens and Food Processing: These units safely supply power to high-wattage appliances like ovens, fryers, and chillers, with the built-in fuse protecting against overcurrents in demanding environments.
• HVAC Systems: Fused spurs are essential for providing a secure and fused power supply to heating, ventilation, and air conditioning units, ensuring their safe and reliable operation.
• Retail and Office Buildings: Used for dedicated power supplies to various fixed appliances such as water heaters, hand dryers, and specific display lighting, fused spurs provide localised protection.
• Warehousing and Logistics: In large warehouses, fused spurs power fixed conveyor systems, charging stations, and other permanent electrical installations, crucial for operational efficiency and safety.
• Healthcare and Laboratories: Given the critical nature of equipment, fused connection units provide protected power to medical devices, laboratory apparatus, and specialised diagnostic equipment, upholding stringent safety standards.

Trusted Fused Connection Unit Manufacturer, Supplier & Distributor in Malaysia

RS Malaysia is your trusted supplier and distributor of high-quality fused connection units throughout the nation. We are committed to providing reliable electrical safety solutions, stocking an extensive selection of fused spurs from leading global brands such as MK Electric, Siemens, and our own highly dependable RS PRO range. Our dedication to quality ensures that whether you need a 13A connection unit, a single switched fused spur, or an unswitched fused connection unit, you'll find products that meet stringent safety standards and deliver lasting performance at competitive prices.

If you are looking for a safe and reliable fused spur, buy it from RS Malaysia along with other essential components such as fuse tags and ring terminals. We offer competitive prices and a seamless online ordering experience. Enjoy fast, nationwide doorstep delivery. For detailed delivery information and fees, visit our Delivery page.