Pulse Electronics High Power Planar Magnetics

There is an important requirement in high-power converter applications for highly efficient yet small power magnetics. It is commonly believed that complicated and dense 3D finite element analysis (FEA) models are required to accurately analyze and design high-power magnetics. In contrast, here we propose a novel design methodology using 2D FEA approximations, that produces results quickly and accurately. We analyze two of the magnetics (phase-shifted full bridge transformer and output inductor) used in a 1.8kW DC/DC inverter for HEV/EV automotive applications.