Performance verification of PTC heaters in electric vehicles: ADG+ covers key testing requirements

With the development of new energy vehicle (NEV) technology, automotive manufacturers are placing ever higher demands on the performance and testing standards of key components such as PTC heaters. The VW 80000 standard, developed jointly by Volkswagen, Audi and BMW, has become the industry benchmark for validating PTC systems. It includes environmental, electrical and EMC testing and is widely accepted by leading automotive manufacturers worldwide.

To meet the rigorous testing requirements of PTC heating cells, AC Power Corp. (Preen) has developed the ADG+ series of high-performance programmable DC power supplies that provide a complete and reliable testing solution. They provide thorough validation of PTC heater performance - from functional evaluation to extreme operating conditions. This solution has been successfully implemented at a leading manufacturer specializing in automotive air conditioning systems and related components.

The customer required a system capable of high-voltage testing (≥800 V) while operating three PTC heaters simultaneously. The ADG+ series met this demanding requirement with a compact, high power density design that allows output power up to 300 kW and voltage up to 2000 V in a single device. This not only increases test throughput but also significantly reduces overall test time - an ideal solution for high-volume production testing.

In addition, the ADG+ series offers comprehensive protection functions against overvoltage, overload, short circuit and overheating. It provides accurate and stable measurement results with low output ripple (≤0.05%) and high accuracy (≤0.1%), while maintaining a fast response to dynamic load changes.

The customer also required tight control of the test environment and real-time data monitoring. The ADG+ models feature low noise (down to 0.2%), effectively minimizing communication interference during testing. They can be easily integrated with temperature and humidity chambers, salt chambers, and vibration tables, allowing equipment performance to be verified in a wide range of environmental conditions.

The ADG+ series can be configured to suit specific test scenarios. Combined with Preen Program software, users gain real-time access to test benches - increasing both efficiency and accuracy of data collection. For easy and safe operation, the system is equipped with a 7" touchscreen, shuttle knob and emergency switch.

From safety protection to performance reliability, the ADG+ series is a solid and efficient power source for comprehensive PTC heater validation.