MAY 2023AUTOTECHOUTLOOK.COM9public charging stations that are typically exposed to dirt, salt and other abrasives and might not be properly maintained, can degrade electrical terminals. This can lead to reduced energy transfer efficiency, resulting in longer charging times. What's more, high-powered charging stations delivering DC currents of 500 amps or more generate extreme heat, leading to a slowdown in charging speed. TE Connectivity is addressing the risk for charging inlet wear and tear that can lengthen charging times with innovations in connectors, such as metallic surface plating technology. TE's TENDUR surface plating technology uses a unique combination of silver and graphite, which can deliver strong conductivity performance with self-lubricating graphite particles. These particles minimize abrasion on any part of the contact zone during mating. TENDUR's superior abrasion resistance is designed to withstand up to 50,000 charging cycles, five times the 10,000-cycle average lifespan of a standard charging inlet. As a result, the resistance of the charging connections remains low over the vehicle's lifetime and ensures that the charging duration does not increase over time. While the charging inlets of cars without an abrasion resistant surface might have to be replaced over the vehicle's lifetime due to the wear, this is not necessary with TENDUR plating- so it's not only more convenient, because charging is faster, but also more sustainable.In response to the desire for sustainability in high performing connectors, TE has also created GreenSilver, a state-of-the-art contact surface plating technology designed to enhance connector performance in high voltage applications other than the charging inlet. Environmental concerns over water and energy consumption, along with the extensive use of metals in EV manufacturing, are driving more sustainable innovations in high-performance charging. GreenSilver uses less precious metal than traditional connectors, yet it still delivers the same electrical performance, in addition to providing enhanced vibration and heat tolerance needed in the electrical power train. This breakthrough non-galvanic dry plating process eliminates the use of hazardous materials, while achieving a 35% reduction in CO2 emissions and a 99% reduction in water consumption in production.Electric mobility solutions, including charging technologies, are in a constant state of advancement. To continue to improve the convenience, reliability and safety of the EV experience, TE engineers work closely with virtually every OEM to help them solve challenges and break down barriers to EV adoption. Electric mobility charging technologies are in a constant state of advancement. To continue to improve the convenience, reliability and safety of the EV experience, TE engineers work closely with virtually every OEM to help them solve challenges and break down barriers to EV adoption
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