Optimize Inductor Design To Minimize Output-Filter Size

Focus:

In PWM-based buck and boost converters, the inductor L and the output storage capacitor Co are commonly the largest components in the converter. Their combined size can be minimized by not allowing either component to become much larger than the other. In this article, equations are derived to enable the inductor and capacitor to be similarly sized in order to minimize overall filter size (volume). This article approaches this problem from a thermal viewpoint and sets out to equalize the inductor and capacitor power losses. From there, it’s possible to determine the optimal value of L for a minimum volume of L and Co. In this article, a series of equations are derived to determine the optimal L given a particular capacitor value and other assumptions such as use of a particular core. A design example is presented. Advice is given on how to use the derived equations.

What you’ll learn:

• How to minimize output filter size in buck and boost converters
• How to achieve equal losses in the inductor and output storage capacitor in buck and boost converters

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Author & Publication:

Dennis Feucht, Innovatia Laboratories, Cayo, Belize, How2Power Today, Apr 15 2020

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