Compact EV Charger Wallbox Gets High-Power PCB Relay

Omron Electronic Components Europe has introduced a groundbreaking 4 pole PCB relay specifically designed for 22kW Mode 3 AC EV charging stations. The Omron G9KC PCB relay stands out in the market for offering the lowest contact resistance available, resulting in significantly reduced load terminal heat rise for EV wallbox chargers.

This compact PCB relay from Omron opens up new possibilities for designers and manufacturers of EV chargers. By utilizing this relay, they can develop systems that enable faster and more efficient charging processes, all while enhancing reliability and extending the expected lifetime of the equipment.

With the increasing popularity of electric vehicles (EVs), there is a growing demand for reliable and high-speed EV supply equipment, also known as EV chargers. To achieve improved charging speeds, higher charging currents are required. However, this necessitates the use of higher-rated electronic components, leading to increased heat generation within the wallbox enclosure.

Higher temperatures inside the wallbox can have a significant impact on charging performance and efficiency, potentially causing temporary limitations on charging power. Moreover, elevated heat levels can accelerate component wear and premature failure. Designers of EV charging infrastructure face the challenge of managing the heat dissipation from high-power components while striving to reduce the overall system footprint.

The 4-pole G9KC PCB relay features a mechanically coupled, double-break contact design tailored for AC wallbox and Pedestal Charger applications in various settings, including residential, commercial, and industrial environments. This innovative design not only lowers the operating temperature in a typical 22 kW wallbox for faster and more efficient charging but also enables more compact and durable designs.

Unlike traditional contactors, the G9KC relay can be mounted directly on a printed circuit board (PCB), facilitating the creation of smaller and lighter designs across a range of products such as EV chargers, UPS systems, grid interactive devices, and commercial and industrial inverters and converters. The G9KC relay has received safety certifications from reputable authorities like UL/C-UL, TUV, and CQC, meeting stringent industry standards such as IEC 62955 and IEC 61851-1 for electric vehicle charging systems.