Overview
IEC TS 61851-3-6:2023 is a Technical Specification developed by the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) addressing electric vehicles (EVs) conductive charging systems. This document specifies the requirements for DC EV supply equipment where protection relies on double or reinforced insulation, focusing on the communication between voltage converter units (VCUs) using CANopen protocol. It applies to scenarios involving the conductive transfer of electric power between the electrical supply network and an EV, a removable rechargeable energy storage system (RESS), or the traction battery of an EV. The specification provides detailed application objects for both AC/DC and DC/DC voltage converter units, defining how data must be exchanged for safe and efficient operation.
Key Topics
- CANopen Communication: The standard establishes reliable data exchange protocols for communication between supply equipment and EV components, ensuring interoperability and safety.
- Voltage Converter Unit (VCU) Application Objects: Defines the standard set of application objects that enable control, monitoring, and management of AC/DC and DC/DC converters.
- Double or Reinforced Insulation: Focus is placed on systems where electrical protection is provided by enhanced insulation, increasing safety during charging.
- Object Dictionary Structure: Includes comprehensive application objects for various functional requirements, including control words, status words, voltage, current, power, and energy counters.
- Functional State Automation (FSA): Outlines operational states and transitions, providing a framework for standardized state management during energy transfer.
- Parameters for Stationary and Mobile Usage: Covers both stationary EV charging infrastructure and removable battery charging, supporting broader e-mobility use cases.
Applications
IEC TS 61851-3-6:2023 is highly relevant for:
- Charging Infrastructure Manufacturers: Ensures compatibility and interoperability of DC supply equipment, especially where double or reinforced insulation is required by regulations or local standards.
- EV and Battery Manufacturers: Provides a standard method for communication and data exchange, optimizing charging performance and safety for both fixed and removable batteries.
- System Integrators: Facilitates integration of diverse hardware components in charging stations by using a unified communication standard, reducing engineering time and costs.
- Smart Charging and Energy Management: Enables advanced monitoring and control via standardized objects, supporting grid-responsive features and smart energy management solutions.
- Safety and Compliance Assessments: Provides a benchmark for ensuring that electric vehicle charging systems meet essential communication and insulation protection requirements.
Related Standards
The IEC TS 61851-3-6:2023 standard forms part of a larger framework for EV charging systems. Key related IEC standards include:
- IEC 61851 Series: Covers general requirements and other specific parts relating to conductive charging systems for electric vehicles.
- IEC 61851-23: Focuses on DC fast charging infrastructure for electric vehicles.
- IEC 61851-24: Specifies digital communication between DC supply equipment and EVs.
- IEC 62752: Addresses in-cable control and protection devices for charging.
- IEC 62196 Series: Standardizes plugs, socket-outlets, vehicle connectors, and inlets for EV charging.
By adhering to IEC TS 61851-3-6:2023, organizations can ensure robust, interoperable, and safe communication for DC EV charging equipment where protection is provided by double or reinforced insulation, a critical need for the expanding electric mobility sector.