Misconceptions In Power Magnetics
by Dennis Feucht, Innovatia Laboratories, Cayo, Belize, How2Power Today, May 14 2021
Focus:
In this article, the author observes that magnetics design is simple, but the path to
simplicity has some ideas that are misleading, some that are not true but widespread and
some that should be widely known but are not. This article discusses these
various misconceptions. It begins with discussion of a boost push-pull converter that
illustrates the need for information on how to optimize transformer and inductor design.
Next it discusses the common belief that max power is transferred through a transformer
when core and winding losses are equal, and where this concept fails. Other topics include
the underappreciated relationship between ripple factor and core material optimization for
max power transfer; where equal allotment of winding area to primary and secondary
windings is optimal and where it is not; and thermal resistance as a factor in determining
optimal core shape. The article concludes by citing sources that provide a solid grounding
in the fundamentals of magnetics design.
What you’ll learn:
- How to understand the common misconceptions in power magnetics design
- How to understand key concepts useful in optimizing power supply magnetics
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