DIY Home EVSE

[hcsharp]

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Question: Do ya'll think that I should add in a volt meter and an ammeter as well? (I have a pair for testing purposes.)

I put a digital volt meter LCD in mine because I found a nice looking display for < $10. I have a separate LCD that displays lots of other information including amps corresponding to the pilot signal, but it has much smaller characters and you can't read it from across the garage. I may also have it display the actual amps the vehicle is drawing. I'm constantly updating my software! Frankly if doing it again I wouldn't use the separate voltage display. It's pretty (blue backlight) but ultimately just another energy drain and I can just as easily have it displayed on the programmable LCD, which BTW is a must-have on any DIY EVSE.

[Lloyd]

When you're done, how about posting a step by step DIY with a parts list?

[W.Petefish]

Here is the beta test version... Not quite finished, but able to test at full amperage.

[DarkStar]

What model of GFCI is that? I've seen those before but they've always been 120 volt versions, not 240. Thanks!

[W.Petefish]

The GFCI is a Leviton 8895. I am concerned as to the fact that the GFCI keeps tripping and shutting off the SSRs. I'll need some time to work through this problem.

I also verified that the Roadster hates any J1772 over 70A.

I noticed some heating from the SSRs. I'm also going to add a fan to help cool them.

[hcsharp]

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I noticed some heating from the SSRs. I'm also going to add a fan to help cool them.

Do you still think the SSRs consume less power than modern contactors?

[W.Petefish]

Less. They use around, I think, 3-20mA where contactors use around 200mA and use AC rather than DC. (at least most)

[Fuzzylogic]

Nice project!

But...are you allowed to use SSRs instead of a Contactor/Relay?

I always thought the 240Volt live wires needed to be physically disconnected from the (J1772 or Tesla) plug, when not in use.
Although a SSR disconnects it electronically, i don't think it's as safe as a contactor.

[widodh]

Nice project!

But...are you allowed to use SSRs instead of a Contactor/Relay?

I always thought the 240Volt live wires needed to be physically disconn:ected from the (J1772 or Tesla) plug, when not in use.
Although a SSR disconnects it electronically, i don't think it's as safe as a contactor.

could be indeed! I remember reading something like that. Might be Europe specific.

I found a descent 4p relais: LEGR RELAIS 4P 4074 63A 24V - Magneetschakelaar, AC-schakelend - Relais/magneetschakelaars - Industrieel

That would work I

[W.Petefish]

In theory you don't even need a contactor/SSRs. (don't take my head off over this one) But I find that your breakers will wear out faster than you'd like, and it is great big shock hazard if you don't have them.

Mind you that this isn't UL approved or even rated. That being said I over-design the circuit so that it can handle even more amps than it'll ever see in any way, shape, or form. Like has been said, overkill is a good thing when it comes to electrical safety.