I work with mobile service people that periodically replace fuses in 60A, 100A, 200A, etc. on exterior disconnects. One of their issues is maintaining the integrity of their fuse inventory in the service vehicle. Because they do so much driving, the label often gets worn off the fuse so it's not immediately clear as to what the fuse is. Many have the fuse type stamped in the metal but it's still a hassle.

Have you ever dealt with this issue? If so, what kind of travel tote, device, method, have you used to solve the problem?

Phil,

In the past, I've had to deal with worn off or obscured labeling. It's always been my position that the markings need to remain intact. Small fuses often have their ratings embossed in the metallic end caps and should therefore remain legible. However, many of the larger types are encased in a fiberglass tube with ink stamped makings, and they risk rubbing off or something else rubbing on. The first, most obvious step is to not store them loose in a toolbox where they can move around and bump into one another or other tools and parts. Most of these kind of fuses come in some kind of container or blister pack to avoid this exact problem. Leaving the parts in their original packaging until time to actually install them makes a world of difference. Especially when they are exposed to constant jostling of a vehicle.

If you are getting something else rubbing onto the fuse body, it's very possible this could turn out to be a conductive contaminant and should be avoided at all costs.

Best of luck, Doug

Thanks for your note Doug. Your comment about conductive dust is spot on and very likely in many situations. I hadn't considered that.

I found a steel 12 (and 16) compartment box made by Durham (Grainger) that might work good for this. The 12 compartment one can handle up to 6" long fuses.....so typically 100A and below. I thing I am going to get one and line the bottom of each compartment with neoprene. It's got a small latch too that should last awhile anyway

It's interesting, this whole discussion is reminding me of the old TV repairman's toolbox, when they used to make house calls (1950s, 1960s). Very often vacuum tubes would go bad, and they kept a stock of these on hand. The tool box was huge and would open to reveal a collection of vacuum tubes in their individual cardboard boxes, all tucked away in the fold out trays.

All the best, Doug