Eaton introduces 48-volt DC/DC converters designed for harsh environments

     Eaton has announced that it is offering a higher power version of its low-voltage 48-volt DC/DC converter for commercial and off-road vehicles, which is designed to withstand the harsh environments in which these vehicles are driven.

     Ben Karrer, Engineering Director of Low Voltage and Power Conversion Products at Eaton's Vehicle and Vehicle Electrification Group, said: "Our new converters have an output current capability of up to 40 amps and can be installed in very difficult locations on vehicles, including frame rails, batteries and engine compartments. These locations have extremely harsh environmental conditions, high shock and vibration, and require robust protection."

     Eaton's DC/DC converters convert the voltage from a 48V supply to 12V to run auxiliary systems and other low-power systems. This design helps basic equipment - including anti-lock brakes and power steering systems - to function without power, making it unique among products in the field.

     As off-road vehicle and commercial vehicle manufacturers increasingly turn to dual-voltage electrical architectures, there is a growing demand for 48-volt DC/DC converters. The Eaton converter has a natural convection air cooling design, is easy to integrate and can operate at ambient temperatures up to 85 degrees Celsius. In addition, the converter is designed with high efficiency to reduce power losses over a wide operating range.

     The converter is also designed to reduce weight and save space. Most cars operate at 12 or 24 volts, so increasing the voltage to 48 volts decreases the current proportionally as the voltage increases by up to four times. Since the harness size is selected based on the current size, reducing the current allows for the use of a smaller harness, which reduces weight and helps alleviate layout problems.

     Eaton's DC/DC converter product line offers multiple power and voltage level flexibility and can be optimized to the manufacturer's charging system specifications for seamless operation. It also supports the CAN communication protocol, which allows DC/DC converters to communicate directly with other vehicle electronic control units to transmit diagnostic information.

     "This device is the ideal solution for manufacturers who need a reliable way to manage the higher power loads of modern commercial and off-road vehicles," said Karrer.