A FEA-based Method for Determining the Thermal Equilibrium in Self-Heating of Magnetic Components

Abstract:
This paper presents an in-depth investigation of the transient self-heating of magnetic components, focusing on the use of Steinmetz parameters to accurately determine temperature dependent core losses. Specific stress profiles derived from electrical equivalent circuit simulations are used to model the thermal behaviour of inductive components. Based on our findings, a novel methodology that integrates both thermal and magnetic aspects to facilitate rapid estimation of self-heating phenomena in inductors is proposed. This innovative approach not only improves the accuracy of thermal simulations, but also promotes the efficient use of core and winding materials, contributing significantly to resource-saving measures in power electronics. By aligning theoretical predictions with empirical observations, our research highlights the importance of accurate thermal modelling in the design and optimisation of high performance power electronic systems.