Comparison of Core Technologies Applied to Power Inductors

This work evaluates and compares electrical and thermal behavior of magnetic material technologies applied to power inductors. The objective is to identify materials that have the highest volumetric power density and efficiency. The nonidealities caused by variations in magnetic permeability increase design complexity, and knowing the thermal, electrical and magnetic relations in project parameters is essential. Inductor designs for MPP, HF, Sendust, Kool $\mathrm{M}\mu$ MAX and P ferrite materials are evaluated and compared over a span of operating points (frequency and current ripple). Results present the relationship between volume, current density, copper losses and core losses, pointing the specific ranges each material is recommended at. Design procedure is described, and discussions relate performance to cost.