TE Connectivity Relay and Contactor News

VESA Vacuum Circuit Breaker Ensures Protection For The Green Age

Wed, 11 Jan 2012 00:00:00 GMT

DARMSTADT, Germany -- Jan. 10, 2012 -- TE Connectivity has developed an enhanced generation of electrical circuit breakers for trains which eliminate the disadvantages associated with conventional mechanical, pneumatic circuit breakers. The innovative VESA vacuum circuit breaker (VCB) for electric trains is the world's first all electromagnetically operated system for 25 kV and 15 kV vehicles. After five years of development and design evolution based on field data, the VESA VCB impressively demonstrates what is possible: more than 800 units on four continents are providing the utmost in proven reliability and leading the electric rail vehicle market into a new era. VESA VCB performance has been qualified for high- and medium-speed trains (underground, commuter suburban and freight trains) worldwide and operates successfully in a range of varying weather and climate conditions.

Relays for Electric Vehicle Charging

Thu, 14 Jul 2011 00:00:00 GMT

Wide selection of high-voltage relays and contactors to manufacture charging stations -- TE Connectivity provides the right product for every need

When designing charging stations for electric vehicles, new requirements for components such as relays, connectors and cables must be taken into consideration. Relays and contactors in particular play a key role in the integrity of the design and adherence to requirements. In conjunction with other power components, relays control the charging process precisely and switch various loads on and off with no degradation. They are characterized by high durability and reliability, ensuring operational safety and longevity of the systems within the charging stations. For relays in line voltage applications, TE Connectivity offers proven solutions for power switching that have been used in industry for decades.

Progressive: TE Connectivity Supports Project of the FREEDM Systems Center Research Institute

Thu, 14 Jul 2011 00:00:00 GMT

Focus is on investigating a wireless charging station for electric vehicles

Active research support
The goal of the joint research project with the FREEDM Systems Center is to develop solutions for the wireless charging of electric cars. Different scenarios are being studied, including the stationary charging of electric vehicles as well as in-motion transfer. The project team, which consists of scientists and industry representatives, identifies the various interfaces required for implementation and the components which need to be developed for this purpose. In this regard, TE personnel accompany and advise the research students, giving them the benefit of their experiences in the automotive industry. "The regular exchange between TE and the young scientists ensures that highly innovative ideas are translated into practical solutions," says Roger Thrush, Director of Engineering for Global Automotive at TE and one of the projects mentors. "The close interaction with the students in the research project is a major asset to both sides. Not only can TE provide experience from decades of practice; in return, the company receives much important input. All our employees will benefit from this transfer of knowledge. Therefore, two of our interns are also involved in the research project. With this investment, we can give them know-how that, in this form, is unique and very valuable for their career."