You may be all too familiar with the potential hazards of exposure to the sun and its harmful ultraviolet rays. Moderate exposure gives you tanned skin, while being exposed for too long will result in sunburn. Now, apart from our skin, plastic material can be affected by UV rays as well. Devices made from plastics that are not UV resistant will run the risk of degrading or malfunction from prolonged exposure to the sun.
UV resistance is an important consideration for EV chargers as they are typically installed outdoors, and often exposed to sunlight for long periods of time. As charging your vehicle is an essential part of owning and driving an EV, new owners should definitely consider purchasing chargers that are UV resistant. This will help protect your charger from the damaging effects of UV rays, so as to ensure longevity and optimal charging performance.
Key Considerations
When assessing the level of UV resistance for EV chargers, there are a number of key factors to consider. First of all, materials used to construct the enclosure of the charger should be UV resistant. Protective enclosures or covers should be built from durable materials to withstand prolonged exposure to sunlight without discoloring or becoming fragile. One of these materials is polycarbonate, which has UV resistant properties, and also powder-coated metals treated for additional UV protection.
Protective coatings or finishes are applied to some chargers to further enhance their UV resistance. This type of coating act as a barrier against UV radiation and safeguards underlying parts from degradation.
As a general rule, the overall design of the charger should take UV protection into account. More reputable manufacturers usually subject chargers to more thorough UV resistance testing and certification. They also incorporate effective sealing techniques to stop UV rays from penetrating to the internal components of the charger, minimizing the risk of damage.
It is also recommended for EV owners to inspect and clean their chargers regularly. Apart from UV damage, dirt and debris can accumulate on device surfaces over time, which may lead to degradation. Inspecting your charger on a regular basis will help identify signs of UV damage and allow for the right repairs.
UV Resistant Materials for Chargers
Certain materials are known for their UV resistant abilities and are often used to build EV chargers. A popular choice is polycarbonate, which is frequently used to make charger enclosures due to its excellent UV protection. The material is a durable thermoplastic that can withstand prolonged exposure to UV rays without signs of degradation.
Fiberglass reinforced plastic is another frequently used material. It is a composite consisting of a polymer matrix reinforced with fiberglass. Apart from being UV resistant, it is sturdy and very durable, making it ideal for outdoor devices including chargers.
EV charger covers are also made from metals like aluminum and steel, with a powder coating applied to boost their UV protection. The coating serves as a protective layer from UV radiation and corrosion.
Some thermoplastic materials are specifically formulated with UV stabilizers, which further enhances their protection against UV rays. These include polyvinyl chloride and high-density polyethylene, both used in the construction of EV chargers.
With many different EV chargers available from various manufacturers, their UV protection designs and materials used will also differ. It is advisable to compared charger products from different manufacturers to determine which model performs the best.
The Best Performers
As for selecting EV chargers with best UV resistance performance, it is always a good idea to look for chargers from well-known brands or manufacturers with high quality and reliable products, made with materials that offer maximum UV protection.
If you are interested in purchasing a durable and UV resistant EV charger, get in touch with us and find out more about Volchar’s home EV chargers, designed with anti-UV materials to ensure optimal outdoor performance. We will recommend the right charger to meet your specific needs and budget.
Before making your choice, we recommend conducting research on specific models, and consulting with more experienced owners or installers for further insight on the EV charger that works best for you.