Traditionally, magnetics used in electronic systems have always involved a wire coil winding, which introduced some variability in their performance, no matter how precise the winding was. Planar magnetics, the latest innovation of magnetics design, offer a new way to achieve robust power, reliable performance, and higher power densities. Initially used mainly in extremely high-performance Defense and Aerospace applications, planar magnetics are seeing more and more widespread use across many industries.
What makes planar magnetics different from traditional ones?
The biggest difference between planar and traditional magnetic components is the wire coil. Traditional transformers and inductors feature the tried and true coil windings around a central material or air core. However, this design has always featured some amount of variability in performance.
Planar magnetics feature multiple flat conductors, typically flat copper windings or multi-layer PCB configurations, rather than a wire coiled around a core. This design is much more compact and lightweight, as it eliminates the bulky material coil and multiple layers of insulation needed for traditional transformers or inductors. Planar-type transformers have been around for many years, but recent innovations in materials and manufacturing technologies have allowed manufacturers to take them to the next level.
As mentioned above, planar magnetics eliminate the need for all the layers of insulation required in traditional ones.They generate far less heat because there’s less space for heat to build up, plus their ‘windings’ are made on a material that can dissipate heat more effectively than traditional cores. Not only does this improve efficiency and reduce energy losses compared to traditional magnetics, the design also offers longer lasting durability and resistance.
Common Applications of Planar Magnetics Technology
Planar magnetics are most often found in Defense and Aerospace systems, where performance is the utmost concern over initial costs. However, as planar magnetics become more easily manufacturable and available, they’ve also seen wider use in applications like electric and hybrid vehicles, renewable energy systems, industrial power supplies, and much more. They’ll likely see even more use in the future as the constant need for improved power, efficiency, and performance continues to grow.
About SI Manufacturing
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