Which Material Should I Use for EV Charger Cable?
In the previous article, I mainly introduced the situation of EV charger cable of various standards. According to UL2263, EN50620, IEC62893, GB/T33594 and other EV charging cable standards, the materials of EV charging cable mainly include TPU, TPE, PVC, NBR, CR, CPE. So which material is the most suitable for your EV charging cable?
Recommended Materials: TPU and TPE
Here I recommend TPU(Thermoplastic Polyurethane) or TPE (Thermoplastic Elastomer) sheathing material for EV charging cables.
Material Properties Comparison Table
| Material Property | TPU | TPE |
|---|---|---|
| Weather Resistance | Very Good | Very Good |
| Cold Resistance | Very Good | Very Good |
| Tensile Strength | 30–45 N/mm² | ~20 N/mm² |
| Elongation at Break | 500–700% | >300% |
| Abrasion Resistance | Very Good (1.5 rating) | Very Good (1.5 rating) |
| Low Smoke, Halogen-Free | Yes | Yes |
| Economical | Moderate | More Economical |
Performance in EV Charging Applications
1. Outdoor charging stations:
If your charging gun will be used in outdoor charging stations, such as DC charging stations, high power charging stations, then please choose TPU material.
These charging cables are exposed to UV rays, rain and are often dragged. If the weathering and mechanical properties are not good enough, the insulation jacket is likely to break, creating a risk.
2. Indoor garage:
If your cables will be used in your indoor garage, then charging cables with TPE jackets are more suitable. Because of the indoor environment, TPU cables are overpowered and do not need to have good weathering and mechanical properties. Of course, PVC can also be considered, but this material is NOT low-smoke halogen-free, and the abrasion resistance is not good enough.
Summary:
- If you are outdoors, then please choose TPU sheath material charging cable.
- If you are indoor, please choose the charging cable with TPE sheath material.
Want to know more about ev charging cables? Welcome to visit our E-mobility or contact our charging cable experts.
