Panasonic Introduces HE-S SC Relays for Single-Phase EV Chargers

Panasonic Industry has introduced the HE-S SC 2a and HE-S SC 2a1b PCB relay series for single-phase EV charging systems and wallbox applications. The new relays have been developed to meet the upcoming European short-circuit test requirements in IEC 62955, which become mandatory from Q4 2028.

The HE-S SC family is intended to serve as the main switching element in single-phase charging systems, particularly in markets such as the United Kingdom and parts of Italy and Spain. Panasonic states that the relays provide a short-circuit capability of Ip = 1.85kA and I²t = 4.5kA²s.

Designed for IEC 62955 Compliance

According to Panasonic, the HE-S SC relay family already complies with the upcoming European short-circuit requirements defined in IEC 62955.

The company states that this allows wallbox manufacturers to address future regulatory requirements ahead of the 2028 implementation deadline. The relays are designed for PCB mounting and can be integrated directly into charging-system electronics.

Panasonic positions the products as a switching solution for designers looking to meet evolving safety requirements while maintaining a compact system design.

40A Switching Capability

The HE-S SC 2a and 2a1b relays each feature two normally open contacts. Panasonic states that each contact can switch currents of up to 40A at ambient temperatures as high as +70°C.

The company attributes this performance to the relay's thermal design and a coil holding power of 400mW. For applications requiring contact monitoring, the HE-S SC 2a1b version adds a normally closed mirror contact compliant with IEC 60947-4-1. Panasonic states that the feedback contact supports switching loads down to 10mA at 5VDC for status monitoring and diagnostic functions.

PCB Integration for Wallbox Designs

The HE-S SC family is designed to integrate the switching function directly onto a PCB, removing the need for larger external switching assemblies.

According to Panasonic, this approach can reduce system size and simplify assembly within wallbox designs. The company also states that direct PCB integration can help reduce overall material costs.

The HE-S SC relay family is available now.

Learn more and read the original announcement at www.industry.panasonic.eu

Technology Overview

The HE-S SC 2a and HE-S SC 2a1b are PCB relays for single-phase EV charging systems. The relays provide short-circuit capability of Ip = 1.85kA and I²t = 4.5kA²s, support switching currents of up to 40A at +70°C, and use a 400mW coil holding power design. The HE-S SC 2a1b version also incorporates a normally closed mirror contact compliant with IEC 60947-4-1.

Frequently Asked Questions

What applications are the HE-S SC relays designed for?

The relays are designed for single-phase EV charging systems and wallbox applications.

What short-circuit capability do the relays provide?

Panasonic specifies a short-circuit capability of Ip = 1.85kA and I²t = 4.5kA²s.

What is the difference between the 2a and 2a1b versions?

The HE-S SC 2a1b adds a normally closed mirror contact for status monitoring and diagnostic functions.