FLIR, a Teledyne Technologies company, has introduced a new series of robust and handheld test adapters and kits specifically designed for the safety and reliability verification of both commercial and domestic Electric Vehicle (EV) charging stations. These user-friendly tools aim to streamline the installation, maintenance, diagnostics, and troubleshooting of Electric Vehicle Supply Equipment (EVSE).
Recognizing the critical need for effective EVSE testing, FLIR developed these solutions to address key concerns for charging station operators, service providers, and automotive equipment manufacturers. These concerns include verifying protective earth (PE) and electrical wiring integrity, confirming the maximum current output of EV chargers, and ensuring compliance with CAT II 300V and IEC 61851-1 EV safety standards.
The new product lineup features the FLIR EV45-NACS test tool with a built-in NACS plug and a Type 1 converter, alongside the FLIR EV45-T2 test adapter equipped with a Type 2 plug and a Type 1 converter. For enhanced testing capabilities, both models are available in kit form as the FLIR EV-KIT-1 and FLIR EV-KIT-2, each including a FLIR DM286 digital multimeter with IGM® (Infrared Guided Measurement) technology.
Key Capabilities of FLIR’s EV Charger Testing Solutions (EV45-NACS and EV45-T2)
Both the EV45-NACS and EV45-T2 comply with CAT II 300V and IEC 61851-1 EV safety standards, offering essential functionalities such as:
- Ensuring EV charging station safety by checking PE and electrical wiring integrity.
- Testing the charge current interrupt device (CCID) to guarantee electrical safety.
- Indicating and verifying the maximum current output of EV chargers.
- Controlling pilot state indication and simulation.
- Providing comprehensive EV charger status indication via a color LCD display.
- Utilizing FLIR METERLiNK® Bluetooth technology for instant wireless information sharing through the METERLiNK® app.
The FLIR EV45-NACS, with its integrated NACS plug and Type 1 converter, is ideal for testing NACS charging stations and AC wall connectors. It is also compatible with SAE J1772 Type 1 stations, making it suitable for Level 1 and Level 2 EV AC charging in both residential and commercial settings. This tool provides essential EV charger verification.
The FLIR EV45-T2, featuring a built-in IEC 62196-2 Type 2 plug and a Type 1 converter, is designed for testing Type 2 charging stations and AC wall connectors. Similar to the EV45-NACS, it is compatible with SAE J1772 Type 1 charging stations and offers the additional capability of testing the residual current device (RCD) for enhanced electrical safety during EV charger maintenance.
Comprehensive FLIR Test Kits for EVSE Diagnostics (EV-KIT-1 and EV-KIT-2)
The FLIR EV charger test kits provide a more complete testing solution by including the FLIR DM286 digital multimeter with IGM® technology. This allows users to perform additional voltage and frequency measurements, aiding in the diagnosis of potential electrical issues during EVSE troubleshooting.
The Bluetooth® FLIR METERLiNK® technology in the DM286 facilitates seamless wireless connection to the METERLiNK® app for instant documentation, reporting, and sharing of test results during EV charger installation and upkeep.
According to David Ko, Product Manager at FLIR, “As the number of public and private EV charger installations continues to rise exponentially around the world, so the onus grows on test and measurement requirements in accordance with international standards. The market therefore requires the optimal tools to meet this demand. With our EV45-NACS/EV-KIT-1 and EV45-T2/EV-KIT-2, users can leverage the benefits of rugged, compact, and easy-to-use test adapters and kits for EV charging stations. They can also wirelessly document and share findings using a FLIR-compatible METERLiNK meter such as the DM286 thermal imaging multimeter included in both kits.”
All four new product part numbers are shipped with the TA91 compact and convenient carry case with a shoulder strap for easy transportation and organization of the EV charger testing equipment and accessories.
