A new PCB relay family for single-phase EV charging systems combines high-current switching, compact integration, and compliance with upcoming short-circuit safety requirements, helping wallbox designers reduce system size and improve efficiency.
Panasonic Industry has expanded its portfolio of EV charging components with the introduction of the HE-S SC relay series, comprising the HE-S SC 2a and HE-S SC 2a1b models. Developed for single-phase EV charging systems and wallbox applications, the new PCB relays are designed to address future European safety requirements while enabling more compact and energy-efficient charger designs.
The relay family has been engineered to comply with the forthcoming European short-circuit test requirements specified in IEC 62955, which are scheduled to become mandatory from the fourth quarter of 2028. By meeting these requirements in advance, the relays allow charging equipment manufacturers to future-proof new designs and streamline regulatory compliance efforts.
The key features area:
- Short-circuit capability of Ip = 1.85 kA
- Energy withstand rating of I²t = 4.5 kA²s
- Available in 2a and 2a1b contact configurations
- Mirror contact compliant with IEC 60947-4-1
- Supports low-level switching down to 10 mA at 5 VDC for feedback circuits
Designed as the primary switching element in single-phase charging infrastructure, the relays are particularly suited for markets where single-phase charging is widely adopted, including the UK and selected regions of Southern Europe. Each of the two normally open contacts is capable of switching currents of up to 40 A at ambient temperatures reaching 70°C, supporting reliable operation under demanding thermal conditions.
The relays achieve this performance through an optimized thermal architecture combined with a low coil holding power requirement of only 400 mW. This helps reduce energy consumption within charging systems while maintaining robust switching capability.
For applications requiring diagnostic and safety monitoring, the HE-S SC 2a1b version integrates an additional normally closed mirror contact compliant with IEC 60947-4-1. The contact supports low-level switching loads down to 10 mA at 5 VDC, enabling status feedback functions that assist designers in implementing monitoring and functional safety features.
A key advantage of the HE-S SC series is its compact PCB-mount form factor, which allows the complete switching function to be integrated directly onto the circuit board. This eliminates the need for larger external switching assemblies, helping manufacturers reduce system footprint, simplify assembly processes, and lower overall material costs. The combination of compact design, high-current capability, and future-ready compliance makes the relay series suitable for next-generation residential and commercial EV charging equipment.
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