Omron introduces High power PCB relays for faster and more compact electric vehicle charger wall boxes

     Omron Electronic Components Europe has introduced a new high-capacity printed circuit board (PCB) relay designed specifically for Mode 3 AC electric vehicle (EV) charging stations installed in AC wallboxes. The G9KC relay offers the most minimal contact resistance currently available on the market and generates considerably less heat at the load terminal during operation than similar devices. This presents novel prospects for designers and producers of electric vehicle (EV) chargers to develop systems that can facilitate faster and more efficient charging while ensuring greater dependability and longer projected lifespan.

     The rising popularity of electric cars (EVs) drives a significant increase in demand for reliable and high-speed EV supply equipment (EVSE) or EV chargers. Larger charging speeds can be attained by employing larger charging currents. However, this necessitates the utilization of electronic components with higher ratings, which in turn leads to increased heat generation within the wallbox enclosure.

     Elevated temperatures within the wallbox can have a substantial impact on the charging performance and efficiency and may result in temporary restrictions on the charging power. In addition, elevated heat cycles and temperatures can potentially lead to premature wear and failure of components. Hence, designers of EV charging infrastructure face significant difficulty in managing the growing heat generated by more powerful components while also aiming to minimize the total system size.

     The G9KC relay by Omron incorporates an efficient structure including a mechanically coupled, double break contact design. This design is specifically tailored for demanding AC wallbox and Pedestal Charger applications in various contexts such as homes, workplaces, commercial establishments, and industrial environments. Created and engineered to meet rigorous Japanese standards, its purpose is to provide enhanced energy efficiency while minimizing heat dissipation. G9KC significantly adds to the overall decrease in operating temperature in a standard 22 kW (maximum 32 A/Phase) wallbox. This not only enables expedited and more effective charging, but also opens up new opportunities for wallbox designers to create smaller and sturdier designs.