LEM launches new series of DC energy meters for DC fast and megawatt EV chargers

Swiss electrical measurement technology specialist LEM (Life Energy Motion) has launched a new series of DC meters.

The DCES600 and DCES1500 meters address a range of DC current-sensing requirements. They are designed to achieve Class B accuracy at charger level at currents of up to 1,500 A and operating temperatures from -40° to +85° C, without derating. Their high accuracy is maintained across the entire current range, the company says, ensuring precise measurements throughout the full charging cycle.

The new meters comply with international metrology certifications and calibration standards, ensuring accuracy and traceability for kWh billing and regulatory compliance in EV charging applications.

Designers can access the DCES meters over an RS485 communication interface that provides cybersecurity features. LEM also offers a comprehensive set of application programming interfaces (APIs) to enable software integration.

An optional remote display unit, the RDU, gives OEMs and systems integrators flexibility in the design of the user interface. The RDU can be mounted on a front panel, DIN rail or base plate, has a slim form factor, and doesn’t need additional connections other than its link to the DCES meters.

Both DCES meters have a robust mechanical design, with a glass-fiber reinforced case, which offers insulation resistance at up to 1,000 VDC for the DCES600, and up to 1,500 VDC for the DCES1500.

The DCES meters offer real-time reporting of voltage, current, temperature and energy. These values can be used for both direct energy measurement, for example for billing purposes, and as part of a system management strategy for ensuring that end equipment is kept within safe operating limits through remote system diagnostics.

The DCES600 is designed for public and commercial fast charging stations. The DCES1500 is purpose-built for megawatt-class charging to support heavy-duty EVs such as trucks and buses. Both meters can be integrated into fleet charging depots.

The DCES family is suitable for integration into OEM charging platforms and custom solutions for control and monitoring of any DC applications, such as battery storage.

LEM is now in the certification process, which is expected to be completed by the end of the year. The DCES meters will then be compliant with European regulations such as MID 2014/32/EU, the EU’s Directive on measuring instruments, and with the German Eichrecht calibration law. Samples are available now to enable developers to start work on charger integration and certification.

Source: Life Energy Motion