The blade fuse is classified as one of the basic categories of fuses. According to Autoshop101.com, the blade fuse is one of the most commonly used fuses. A blade fuse is designed with a metal element and a transparent insulating apparatus that is color-coded to determine the current rating. There are three types of blade fuses--the Maxi fuse, the standard ATO fuse and the Mini fuse.
The Maxi blade fuse was developed in 1986. It's used to replace fusible links, fusible wire and meet automotive OE (Original Equipment) standards. Installed in more 90 percent of new U.S. car models, this type is dimensionally the largest blade fuse, normally 29.2mm wide, 8.5mm deep and 34.3mm high, including the connectors (legs) and the body. Unlike the Mini and standard ATO blade fuse, the Maxi blade fuse has its own color-code standard relating to the fuse amperage, which is 20 amp (yellow), 30 amp (green), 40 amp (orange), 50 amp (red), 60 amp (blue/aqua), 70 amp (tan/brown) and 80 amp (clear/natural). Maxi blade fuses are available in an assortment of 14 fuses (two of each) or in packs of 10 or two.
The standard ATO (Automotive Technology Organization) fuse is also a plug-in fuse (blade fuse) that is color coded to distinguish the amperage of each fuse. Used in motorcycles, cars, trucks, vans and agricultural equipment, the standard blade fuse is normally 19.1mm wide, 5.2mm deep and 19.3mm high, including connectors (legs) and the body. This type of blade fuse is available in packs of 100, 50, 25, 10 and five.
The Mini fuse is similar in structure and function to the standard fuse. However, this fuse is usually used in conjunction with a Maxi blade fuse in the car engine. Also designed with a plastic body and two prongs that plug in to sockets in the fuse board, this fuse is used in the automotive environment in trucks, vans, motorcycles, cars and agricultural equipment as well as various fleet equipment. The Mini blade fuse has 10 amperages, ranging from 2 amp to 30 amp, and are all color-coded for distinction.
