High-performance capacitors for next-gen level three EV charger circuits

While EV adoption continues to grow, one of the significant issues that potential drivers face is lengthy charging time. The latest Level 3 EV charging stations are pushing voltages and current handling to higher levels in an effort to reduce charging times and get drivers back on the road. This video explains the role capacitors for Level 3 EV Charger Circuits.

The video explains that the DC Link capacitor is a critical component in Level 3 charging stations, which have unique operational, environmental, and mechanical demands. Addressing DC Link requirements early in the design process can reduce inductance and ESR concerns, allow for strategic current path planning, and simplify input and output filtering.

CDE offers a broad range of DC Link capacitors based on many different capacitor technologies. We can recommend a standard or custom solution based on customer specifications. Our diverse technology portfolio and advanced simulation capabilities allow our engineers to design custom DC Link capacitors to the exact electrical and mechanical requirements of an application.

Components available include screw terminal and snap-in aluminum electrolytics as well as polypropylene film capacitors; air or water-cooled types, with oil-impregnated or dry-epoxy construction. Constructions include multiple terminal options in metal or plastic cases. CDE’s process begins with the customer providing the required specifications, including life and other application requirements. These specifications help determine if a standard or custom solution is recommended. To validate the recommendation, CDE utilizes advanced in-house thermal modeling and product testing capabilities. CDE has dedicated engineering resources to design custom DC link capacitors that meet the exact power requirements and unique mechanical packaging to fit complex applications. On the manufacturing side, the company has multiple North American manufacturing facilities.

CDE’s custom-engineered DC Link capacitors are designed specifically for Level 3 EV charging applications. The high-power demands of Level 3 charging require robust DC link capacitors, having exceptional life and reliability over a broad range of operating conditions. CDE offers high capacitance values with low inductance (<5 nH), high ripple current (100s of Amps), self-healing, and low loss dielectrics. Voltage Range: 450 Vdc to 3800 Vdc. -40° C to +135° C Operating Temperature, with life expectancies of 200,000 hours typical.

CDE's custom-engineered DC Link capacitors for Level 3 charging stations provide exceptional life and reliability in challenging operating environments. We offer high capacitance values with low inductance and ripple current ratings in the hundreds of amps. Custom DC Link capacitors are available with voltage ratings up to 3800 volts DC, packaged in metal or insulated plastic cases.