Extremely High Q-factor Inductor for Loss Reduction in Power Converters for MHz Range

Abstract:
In the terms of the green transition of the worldwide spread power conversion an inductor introducing a significant loss reduction in medium-power conversion especially for frequencies up to 1.5 MHz is presented. By achieving an extremely high Q-factor of over 500 despite having a minuscule volume said inductor withstands an outstandingly high ripple current enabling discontinuous mode operation and zero-voltage condition of the power converter and consequently decreases switching losses. Design considerations are discussed and supported by a detailed analysis and magnetic simulations. Finally, theoretical considerations are verified by tests of a prototype SMD inductor built for a space application.