Foremost Electronics, the Essex based specialist distributor of electromechanical components, is now stocking the E-Mobility range of electric vehicle charging connectors manufactured by FCT Electronic GmbH.
FCT has developed this new range of charging connectors for the worldwide net integration of electric vehicles. These 16 or 33 Amp connectors meet the needs of increasingly powerful electric vehicles which are being developed by car manufacturers worldwide and the requirements of IEC 62196-2, the proposed European standard for electric vehicle charging connectors.
Due to the rapid pace of development of electric vehicles the need for harmonisation and consolidation of charging connectors, their electrical characteristics and the charging network architecture has become urgent. No existing standards are available so the international standards committee and representatives of automobile manufacturers and energy providers are cooperating to establish a standardised form. Within the IEC 62196-2 ruling (German Proposal) the electrical benchmark figures and general specifications have been agreed. One and three-phase connections of 16A up to 63A are incorporated with high current contacts having a diameter of 6 mm. Signal contacts for data communication have a diameter of 3 mm and an integrated resistance coding makes the identification and login at the electrically-run vehicle or rather at the charging point possible. A mechanical locking mechanism is specified to provide the necessary fixing and safety during the charging process. If required, data communication between the vehicle, the charging unit and the network provider can be realised via an additional frequency modulator.
Standards in the automotive industry are particularly stringent as climate conditions can be extreme and the effects of salt and sand must be provided for. The E-Mobility connector from Foremost features a suitable contact plating to meet all of the expected environmental conditions.
Alan Cook, Managing Director of Foremost Electronics comments;” After a development time of just three months, this innovative E-Mobility charging connector was field tested in Israel where complete integration of an electric vehicle network architecture on a national level is planned. Expansion of electric vehicle charging networks into further countries such as Denmark and Austria is planned. The new FCT E-Mobility connecter is an important addition to our product range and is demonstrates our continued investment to grow into new and emerging markets.”
The new E-Mobility from Foremost connectors meet the requirements of IEC 62196-2 ruling (German Proposal) where the mechanical and electrical benchmark figures are specified. Extensive testing and certification have been carried out and a conformity declaration according to IEC 60309-1:1999 +A1:2005 for the charging connector 16 A has been accredited at the “Österreichischen Verband für Elektrotechnik“(Austrian Association for Electro-technology).
Outline specifications of the eMobility connector are; single and 3-phase operation at 230, 400 and 500VAC, current up to 70A, safety mounting and dismounting connection sequence, safety cut out connection, weatherproof to greater than IP44 and operating temperature range -30 to +70ºC.
Foremost Electronics
www.4most.co.uk