The core elements of EV chargers: relays

EV Charger, like gas stations that provide electricity to electric vehicles, provide charging services for electric vehicles of different specifications by fixed installation in public or private areas. It is connected to the power grid, and the output end is connected to the vehicle, supporting both basic and fast charging methods. In the design of charging piles, relays and contactors play a vital role to ensure safe, precise and efficient charging operations.

The relay mainly achieves three functions in the AC/DC charging station:

(1) Control Power: The charging station relay can serve as a control power switch. When the charging station is activated, the relay is activated for turning on the control power. After the charging is completed, the relay is activated again for disconnecting the control power.

(2) Circuit Switch: The charging station relay can achieve circuit switching. When the charging station uses different charging methods, the relay can achieve circuit switching. For example, when the charging station switches from AC charging to DC charging, the relay can undertake and complete frequent switching tasks.

(3) Status Indication: The charging station relay can also achieve the function of charging status indication. When an electric vehicle is charging, the relay can control the indicator light of the charging station to indicate the charging status of the electric vehicle.

Comparing with DC charging station, the design of AC charging station / charging pile for new energy vehicles is much simpler, and the relay models used are relatively single. The control PCB board of typical AC charger which contain relays. In addition, there're 32A or 40A relays are used in the on-board charger (OBC). The EV portable charging gun (IC-CPD) also use relays to control  the charging switch.

The future of core components: the application of relays in new energy

Whether it is battery management in new energy vehicles, billing control of charging piles, or real-time monitoring of solar power generation systems, relays are indispensable components. They ensure automation, remote control and safety protection between devices, and are an important force in promoting modern industrial automation.

In short, relays and contactors, as core components of car charging piles, their precise operation and efficient work ensure the fast and safe charging of electric vehicles, and also promote technological innovation and progress in the new energy industry.