Microscale magnetic components for DC-DC converter applications

Core materials for microinductors and microtransformers were assessed for operation in the MHz frequency range. The performance of electrodeposited nickel-iron, cobalt-ironcopper alloys and the commercial alloy Vitrovac 6025 have been examined through their inclusion within a custom-made solenoid microinductor. Inductance values ranging from 0.3µH to 120µH with component power efficiency above 90% have been measured. Although the present inductor, at 500 KHz, achieves 91% power efficiency for 2.4W/cm³ power density, an optimized component achieved a power efficiency of 94% for 28W/cm3 power density. © The Institute of Engineering and Technology.