Optimization of Magnetics Component Performance of the Interleaved Converters

Nowadays the semiconductor switching converters are adapted in many applications among us. In most cases, the main parameters of switching converter are power conversion efficiency and development costs. Due to the mentioned reasons, it is very important to optimize all electronic parts within any converter. Very powerful tool for system optimization is mathematical modeling based on the finite elements method (FEM) analysis. Proposed paper will deal with possible optimization through development of FEM simulation models of the magnetic component of given dual interleaved converter. The simulation models are designed in COMSOL Multiphysics interface, while integrated and standard boost inductors of two- phase interleaved converters are considered. Paper focuses on mentioned two different types of constructions of boost inductor whose is specific with embedded third leakage-reset inductor, which enables to increase the output voltage gain of the converter. Main difference within the inductors construction is winding type and arrangement, whereby for the first case all three windings are wound on the center column of E planar core and for the second case each coil is wound on separate column of low profile E ferrite core. Considered converter topology is simple and cost effective, while only two more added output diodes are used in comparison with traditional interleaved converter without leakage reset inductance. The voltage gain can be changed by variation of the duty cycle (0%-100%) or by the change of magnetic component turns ratio (between boost coils and leakage reset coil). Almost the constructions of magnetic component has very strong effect on the behavior of power converter and on the output parameters of converter. Core geometry, magnetic flux densities and other parameters of inductors are investigated through simulations and consequently the practical realization of inductors are done for experimental verifications. For this purpose the physical sample of considered converter with considered coils were done to analyze simulated and experimental results. Proposed converter utilizes also high-class SiC devices to decrease switching losses and increase overall system efficiency.