Powering the EV Revolution: The Critical Role of Micro Switches in Charging Gun Electronic Locks

Introduction

The electric vehicle (EV) market is experiencing explosive growth. In the first half of 2023 alone, China’s EV sales reached 1.546 million units, a staggering 137% year-on-year increase. With top players like Tesla, BYD, and Nio pushing the boundaries of adoption, the demand for reliable charging infrastructure has never been higher. Just as a gas pump needs a secure nozzle, an EV charging pile relies on a safe, robust Charging Gun. But what ensures the gun stays locked during a high-voltage charge? The answer is the Electronic Lock, powered by a precision micro switch.

The Safety Challenge in EV Charging

Unlike refueling a gasoline car, charging an EV involves high currents and voltages. If a user were to accidentally pull out the charging gun while current is flowing, it could cause dangerous arcing, equipment damage, or personal injury. To prevent this, modern DC and AC charging guns are equipped with an Electronic Lock System.

How It Works: The Electronic Lock & Micro Switch

The electronic lock serves as the safety guardian during the charging process. The Unionwell G23A Series Micro Switch is the "nerve ending" of this system.

1. Locking Mechanism:When the charging gun is inserted into the vehicle's socket and the charging session begins, a motor or solenoid drives a locking pin to physically secure the gun head to the car's socket.

2. State Feedback (The Micro Switch's Role):

• Locked State: As the lock engages, the mechanical structure triggers the micro switch. The switch immediately sends a signal to the charging pile's control unit: "Gun is Locked." Only then does the system allow current to flow.

• Unlocked State: When charging ends and the user requests to unplug, the system retracts the pin. The micro switch resets, signaling "Unlocked," allowing the user to safely remove the gun.

Why the Unionwell G23A Series?

Charging guns are often used outdoors, exposed to rain, dust, and rough handling. A failure in the switch means the charger won't start—or won't stop.Unionwell’s G23A Sealed Micro Switch is engineered for these harsh conditions:

• High Waterproof Rating: Designed to withstand outdoor elements (IP67 level), ensuring functionality in rain or snow.

• High Reliability: Built to endure thousands of insertion cycles, matching the lifespan of the charging station.

• Precise Signal: Offers accurate feedback to prevent "false locking" errors.

Why Choose Unionwell?

• Market Proven: As the EV market surges, our switches are trusted by manufacturers supplying top EV brands.

• Global Certification: Our products hold UL, cUL, ENEC, and CQC certifications, essential for charging piles exported to global markets.

• Custom Solutions: We provide customized wire harnesses and lever configurations to fit various charging gun internal designs (GB/T, CCS, CHAdeMO standards).

Conclusion

As the number of EVs on the road multiplies, the safety of every charging session becomes paramount. Unionwell’s G23A micro switches ensure that the connection is secure before the power flows, protecting both the vehicle and the user.

Building the next generation of charging piles?

Contact Unionwell today for a certified, waterproof locking solution for your charging guns.