Optimizing Transformer Winding Design For Max Efficiency Over Output Current Range

Focus:

In previous articles on interwinding power transfer in transformers and coupled inductors, design formulas were derived for maximum power transfer having peak winding transfer efficiency, ηmax, using the transfer voltage ratio, υp and the ratio of winding to effective core resistance, βp. In this article, some extended development of power-transfer theory applies the additional constraint of holding the secondary current (i.e. the load current) constant as βp is varied. The migration of the operating-point (op-pt) at ηmax on one efficiency curve to another η curve at a different βp under constant output current shows that as winding resistance is varied in design, the η op-pt can move to either side of the new ηmax. As current is varied, the op-pt on a given η curve also moves and efficiency changes, sometimes dramatically. This article analyzes and derives the theoretical optimal peak efficiency for a power converter when its load spans a range and uses that information to design the transformer.

What you’ll learn:

• How to optimize transformer efficiency over a load current range through winding design

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Author & Publication:

Dennis Feucht, Innovatia Laboratories, Cayo, Belize, How2Power Today, Sep 14 2018

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