A single-pass design method for high-frequency inductors

As the operating frequency and the power rating of power electronic converters increase, the design of high-efficiency inductors and transformers becomes more difficult. Many design procedures described in the literature make use of numerous nomograms, and several iterations of the procedure are normally required. It has been particularly difficult to teach magnetic component design to undergraduate students. From several points of view, it is highly desirable to simplify and demystify the design procedure if possible. In this article we present such a simplified, easy-to-understand design procedure for small, naturally cooled, high-frequency (in excess of 10 kHz) inductors and transformers. The procedure is based on fundamental physical considerations that are easily understood, and the design process is a noniterative single-pass procedure.