IEC 62196 is an international standard that defines requirements for electric vehicle charging connectors and charging stations, ensuring their safety, interoperability, and performance.Here are some core points covered by IEC 62196:
1. Connector Types: IEC 62196 defines different connector types for AC and DC charging. For AC charging, it includes Type 1 (SAE J1772), Type 2 (Mennekes), and Type 3 connectors. For DC charging, it includes Type 4 (CHAdeMO), Type 2 Combo (CCS Combo 2), and Type 1 Combo (CCS Combo 1) connectors.
2. Electrical Safety: The standard establishes safety requirements for charging connectors and charging stations to ensure the protection of users and the EV. It covers aspects such as insulation, protection against electric shock, temperature rise, and resistance to mechanical stress.
3. Communication Protocol: IEC 62196 defines the communication protocol between the EV and the charging station, which enables functions such as control, safety, and billing. It includes the signaling between the vehicle and the charging station to determine the charging parameters and to establish a reliable connection.
4. Charging Modes: The standard specifies different charging modes, including Mode 1, Mode 2, Mode 3, and Mode 4. These modes define the different levels of charging power and the necessary safety measures. Mode 3 is commonly used in Europe for AC charging and supports higher power levels compared to Mode 2.
5. Mechanical Requirements: IEC 62196 covers mechanical aspects of the charging connectors, including dimensions, materials, durability, and resistance to environmental conditions. This ensures compatibility and reliability between different EVs and charging stations.
6. Performance and Testing: The standard outlines testing procedures and requirements to verify the performance and safety of charging connectors and charging stations. This includes tests for electrical and mechanical properties, environmental conditions, and interoperability.
It’s important to note that IEC 62196 has several parts, each focusing on different aspects of EV charging. These include IEC 62196-1 (General requirements), IEC 62196-2 (AC charging connectors), IEC 62196-3 (DC charging connectors), and others.
Part 1: General requirements
IEC 62196-1:2022 is applicable to EV plugs, EV socket-outlets, vehicle connectors, vehicle inlets, herein referred to as “accessories”, and to cable assemblies for electric vehicles (EV) intended for use in conductive charging systems which incorporate control means, with a rated operating voltage not exceeding:
690 V AC 50 Hz to 60 Hz, at a rated current not exceeding 250 A;
1500 V DC at a rated current not exceeding 800 A.
This fourth edition cancels and replaces the third edition published in 2014. This edition constitutes a technical revision.
Part 1 can check more details from the official website page:
https://www.iecee.org/certification/iec-standards/iec-62196-12022
Part 2: Dimensional compatibility requirements for AC pin and contact-tube accessories
IEC 62196-2:2022 applies to EV plugs, EV socket-outlets, vehicle connectors and vehicle inlets with pins and contact-tubes of standardized configurations, herein referred to as accessories. These accessories have a nominal rated operating voltage not exceeding 480 V AC, 50 Hz to 60 Hz, and a rated current not exceeding 63 A three phase or 70 A single phase, for use in conductive charging of electric vehicles.
Part 2 can check more details from the official website page:
https://www.iecee.org/certification/iec-standards/iec-62196-22022
Part 3: Dimensional compatibility requirements for DC and AC/DC pin and contact-tube vehicle couplers
IEC 62196-3:2022 is applicable to vehicle couplers with pins and contact tubes of standardized configuration, herein also referred to as “accessories”, intended for use in electric vehicle conductive charging systems which incorporate control means, with rated operating voltage and current in accordance with IEC 62196-1:2022.
This second edition cancels and replaces the first edition published in 2014. This edition constitutes a technical revision.
Part 3 can check more details from the official website page:
https://www.iecee.org/certification/iec-standards/iec-62196-32022
As an importer of charging stations, it is crucial to comply with the relevant parts of IEC 62196 to ensure the products you import meet the required safety and performance standards for electric vehicle charging in Europe.