OMRON Electronic Components Europe has expanded its G9EK screw-terminal DC power relay series with the introduction of the G9EK-1-EX, a new model designed to handle higher current loads in demanding applications such as electric vehicle charging infrastructure, renewable energy systems and e-mobility.
The newly launched G9EK-1-EX offers a switching rating of 250A at 500VDC, extending the capability of the existing G9EK-1 series. The relays are designed for safety isolation in high-voltage DC environments where reliability, compact design and mechanical resilience are critical.
Building on the established G9EK platform, the G9EK-1-EX maintains the same external dimensions as other G9EK-1 relays, measuring 47.7mm by 86mm by 64.2mm. This allows system designers to upgrade current handling capacity without requiring changes to existing layouts or mounting configurations.
Higher Current Capacity In A Compact Form
OMRON states that the G9EK-1-EX combines higher switching capacity with low power consumption. When closed, the relay achieves a contact resistance of just 15 milliohms, helping to reduce power loss during operation. Coil consumption is rated at 4W, supporting energy efficiency while limiting heat generation.
The increase to a 250A switching rating at 500VDC represents an expansion over the G9EK-1-E, which is rated for 200A at the same voltage. According to OMRON, this provides designers with a greater safety margin and extends the range of applications that can be addressed using the G9EK screw-terminal relay family.
By offering higher current performance within the same physical footprint, the G9EK-1-EX is positioned as an alternative to larger high-current contactors, particularly in installations where space is limited and thermal management is a concern.
Designed For E-Mobility And Harsh Operating Conditions
The G9EK-1-EX has been engineered to meet the mechanical and electrical demands of e-mobility systems, including industrial autonomous guided vehicles. The internal contact mechanism is designed to withstand shock levels of up to 100g, improving tolerance to vibration and mechanical stress in mobile or industrial environments.
OMRON has also focused on mitigating the effects of magnetic repulsive forces that can occur when large currents flow through relay terminals. The terminal structure of the G9EK-1-EX is designed to minimise these forces, particularly under fault conditions such as short circuits. This approach is intended to support longer operational life and maintain contact stability over time.
The relay is rated to handle interruption currents of up to 1000A at 400V, as well as voltage pulses of up to 4000V. These characteristics are intended to support use in systems where transient events and fault conditions must be managed without compromising isolation or safety.
Gasless Design And Operational Performance
Unlike some high-current DC switching devices, the G9EK-1-EX uses a gasless design. OMRON states that this simplifies the internal architecture while supporting safe operation. The absence of gas-filled chambers also aligns with the company’s stated carbon-neutral credentials for the product range.
Operational response times are designed to meet the needs of fast-acting DC systems. The G9EK-1-EX has an operating time of 50 milliseconds and a release time of 30 milliseconds. Mechanical endurance is rated at 200,000 operations, supporting long-term use in applications that require frequent switching.
The relay is normally open and uses screw terminals, reflecting the broader G9EK design approach aimed at secure connections in high-current installations.
Applications Across Energy And Charging Infrastructure
OMRON positions the G9EK-1-EX for use in a range of DC power applications, including electric vehicle charging stations, renewable energy systems and other e-mobility platforms. These sectors increasingly rely on high-voltage DC architectures, where compact, reliable isolation components are required to meet safety and performance standards.
In EV charging infrastructure, higher current ratings can support faster charging and higher power delivery, while robust mechanical performance is important for outdoor and semi-industrial installations. In renewable energy systems, such as energy storage and DC distribution, relays must manage high currents while maintaining low losses and consistent isolation.
By extending the G9EK series, OMRON aims to address these requirements without introducing a new relay format, allowing customers to scale performance while retaining familiarity with existing components.
Company Background
OMRON Electronic Components Europe is the European subsidiary of OMRON Corporation’s Device and Module Solutions division, formerly known as the Electromechanical Components division. The division was renamed in April 2022 as part of OMRON’s long-term vision, Shaping the Future 2030.
The revised division structure reflects a focus on delivering solutions that address social and environmental challenges, including the rollout of new energy sources and the development of more efficient electronic devices. OMRON states that its activities are aligned with goals such as carbon neutrality, digitalisation and improvements in quality of life.
OMRON Electronic Components Europe supports customers across Western and Eastern Europe through eight regional offices, supported by local offices and a network of distribution partners.
OMRON Corporation, founded in 1933, operates globally across industrial automation, electronic components, social infrastructure systems, healthcare and environmental solutions. The company employs around 30,000 people worldwide and operates in approximately 120 countries and regions.
Further information on the G9EK-1-EX relay and the wider G9EK series is available via OMRON Electronic Components Europe.
