Fast and modern diagnostic methods of electric vehicle charging stations
Slowly but systematically, the number of electric vehicles on our roads is increasing every year. We also observe a growing number of public and private charging stations, which is a necessary infrastructure. The pace of development of this sector, as well as the funds invested in it, suggest that this is a trend that will intensify in the coming years. When installing new charging stations, it is extremely important to properly perform acceptance tests to prevent the use of a faulty device. Periodic tests carried out during operation are also key to user safety.
Pic.1. Measurements of vehicle charging station with SONEL EVSE-01 and MPI-540.
Testing of vehicle charging stations
In the area of safety and proper management of EV charging equipment infrastructure, the laws regulating the above issues have only recently been implemented in individual countries around the world.
The basic standard for the wired charging of electric vehicles is the multi-part EN 61851. It describes charging modes and methods of communication between the vehicle and the charging station imposing certain protocols and thus also facilitating periodic and acceptance tests.
The EN 62196 standard complements it defining plugs, sockets, connectors and car plugs that can be used in vehicles and charging stations.
Regarding power supply of the EVSE station, the detailed requirements of the electrical installation have been specified in HD 60364-7-722.
The world is not a legal monolith and depending on the country and the regulations being implemented, the scope of periodic and acceptance tests of vehicle charging stations may vary. However, it is obvious that even in the absence of a legal obligation, it is recommended to perform such tests, due to user safety and a good engineering practice. Usually, the following measurements are a minimum requirement:
- continuity of protective conductors,
- insulation resistance of electrical wires,
- earth resistance, if grounding is used,
- operation of residual current protective devices,
- effectiveness of electric shock protection.
Some of the measurements can be made in a similar way to a standard low voltage installation. However, some of them require the station to be in a proper condition, which can be difficult without appropriate equipment and measuring devices. The EVSE-01 adapter dedicated to testing AC charging stations equipped with a 2nd type connector will certainly be helpful here. Being one of the largest producers of high quality measuring instruments, SONEL definitely marks its presence in a new area of the economy, which is electromobility.
SONEL EVSE-01 adapter
The adapter works with the MPI family of multifunction meters. It allows to make comprehensive measurements in accordance with applicable regulations. In addition, it also allows basic diagnostics of the control system. Simulating the charging cable (proximity pilot line - PP) and vehicle connection status (control pilot line - CP), it will introduce the station into various operating states, while checking the control signals defined by the EN 61851 standard. In order to facilitate diagnostics, one of the EVSE-01 sockets is provided with pulse width modulation signal (PWM).
The measurements of the charging station can be carried out in conjunction with any meter from the MPI multifunction device family (taking into account the capabilities and technical parameters of a given model). SONEL’s flagship, MPI-540 stands out in that line. It enables sequences of automatic measurements, dedicated to charging stations. Thanks to this functionality the measurements can be performed quickly and efficiently. On the other hand, full support of three-phase stations means avoiding of unnecessary cable switching during measurements of subsequent circuit phases.
Combined ergonomics and ease of use with the above functionalities will make the EVSE-01 adapter appreciated and desirable among users.
Pic.2. SONEL EVSE-01 adapter and MPI-540 multifunction meter.
