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Why Is 6mA DC Leakage Detection Critical for EV Chargers?

News | company news | Apr 29,2026

Given the rapid expansion of EV charging infrastructure in Europe, Southeast Asia, and India, engineers face a critical safety issue: DC leakage current.

Unlike traditional AC appliances, EV charging stations use power electronic devices (AC-DC converters) that generate DC leakage current during operation.

If these leakage currents are not detected, the following can occur:
– Protection device failure
– Risk of electric shock
– Fire hazard
– Non-compliance with IEC 62955.

DC Leakage Current Sensor HEYI

What happens if the DC leakage current exceeds 6 mA?

6 mA is a critical threshold:
Type A residual current devices (RCDs) cannot detect DC leakage current. If the DC current exceeds 6 mA, the RCD will fail, triggering system protection. Therefore, detecting DC leakage current exceeding 6 mA is mandatory. The IEC 62955 standard mandates the use of residual current circuit breakers (RCCBs) with DC

leakage current monitoring

(RDC-PD) functionality in markets such as Germany, the UK, and the Netherlands.

These residual current operated circuit breakers (RCCBs) detect 6 mA DC leakage current and provide trip protection.

Why does DC leakage current occur in EV charging stations?

DC leakage current can be caused by rectification, switching elements (IGBT/MOSFET), electromagnetic interference (EMI), and other factors.

Solution: Type B leakage current sensor.

Type B sensors detect:
– AC leakage current
– Pulsating DC current
– Steady-state DC current.

Typical solution: HYCA-07-PD

. Features:
– AC and DC leakage current detection
– Trip signal output
– Self-test function
– 5V power supply
– PCB mounting.

Residual current sensor HEYI

Applications:

1. EV charging stations
2. Inverters/energy storage systems
3. Smart grids.

Market opportunities:

Europe: Mandatory standards, highest demand.
Southeast Asia/India: Fastest growth.
Japan and South Korea: High-end markets.

Summary:

Detecting 6 mA DC leakage current is a critical requirement for safe EV charging.
Choosing the appropriate Type B leakage current sensor is essential for regulatory compliance and ensuring safety.

Compay:HEYI Electrical Co., Ltd.
Brand: HEYI/ASCT
Contact: Bethy
E-mail: heyi@heyiele.com             
Tel: 86-13968747975

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