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Planar Transformer Guide

Planar transformers are innovative magnetic components that provide electrical isolation, voltage transformation, and energy transfer functions in a compact form factor. This guide explores iNRCORE’s planar transformer offerings, their construction, applications, and key design considerations.

View our Planar Transformers

What is a Planar Transformer?

A planar transformer is a flat, low-profile transformer fabricated using printed circuit board (PCB) technology. Unlike traditional wire-wound transformers, planar transformers utilize etched copper windings on a multi-layer PCB substrate, allowing for a more compact design with enhanced performance characteristics.

Key Functions of Planar Transformers

  1. Electrical Isolation: Provides galvanic isolation between input and output circuits, ensuring safety in power supply designs.
  2. Voltage Transformation: Capable of stepping up or stepping down voltage levels as required by the application.
  3. Energy Transfer: Efficiently transfers energy from the primary to the secondary winding with minimal losses.
  4. Compact Design: The low-profile nature of planar transformers allows for integration into space-constrained applications.

Construction of Planar Transformers

Planar transformers consist of several key components:

  • Windings: Etched as tracks on the PCB, these windings are designed to provide the necessary inductance and turns ratio.
  • Core Material: Typically made from ferrite or other magnetic materials, the core provides the necessary magnetic coupling between windings.
  • Layers: Multi-layer PCB construction allows for increased winding density and improved thermal management.

Comparison with Traditional Transformers

ParameterPlanar TransformerWirewound Transformer
ConstructionWindings etched as tracks on PCBWindings made from insulated wires
CorePCB dielectric materialFerrite, iron alloys, etc.
SizeExtremely compact and low profileLarger, significant height
Leakage InductanceVery low due to tight couplingHigher due to poorer coupling
Parasitic CapacitanceLow as limited overlapping areaHigh due to more overlapping wires
AC ResistanceLow as wider copper tracksHigher due to thinner winding wires
Turns Ratio RangeTypical 1:1 to 1:5Wide – 10:1 or more
Power LevelsLower – less than 10W usuallyHigher power handling capacity
CostLower due to PCB processHigher labor for hand winding
IntegrationExcellent, embed directly to PCBModerate, but requires mounting
RepeatabilityVery consistent and controlledPoorer tolerance and unit-unit variation
Efficiency>90% in well designed planar transformers>95% in conventional transformers

Applications

Planar transformers are utilized in various applications across different industries:

  • DC-DC Converters
  • Telecommunications Equipment
  • Consumer Electronics
  • Industrial Automation
  • Renewable Energy Systems

Key Features of iNRCORE's Planar Transformers

iNRCORE offers a range of planar transformers designed for optimal performance:

  1. High Efficiency: Designed to achieve efficiencies greater than 90%, minimizing energy losses during operation.
  2. Compact Size: Low-profile design allows for integration into tight spaces without compromising performance.
  3. Multiple Configurations: Available in various turns ratios and power levels to meet diverse application needs.
  4. Thermal Management: Enhanced thermal performance due to PCB construction allows for better heat dissipation.
  5. RoHS Compliant: Environmentally friendly options that comply with regulatory standards for hazardous substances.

iNRCORE Planar Transformer Product Line

iNRCORE provides a comprehensive range of planar transformers suitable for various applications:

Selecting the Right Planar Transformer

When choosing a planar transformer for your application, consider the following factors:

  1. Power Requirements: Determine the power levels needed for your application to select an appropriate transformer model.
  2. Turns Ratio: Choose a turns ratio that meets your voltage transformation needs while maintaining efficiency.
  3. Size Constraints: Ensure that the transformer fits within your design specifications without compromising performance.
  4. Thermal Considerations: Assess heat dissipation requirements; ensure that selected transformers can operate within specified temperature ranges without overheating.
  5. Integration Needs: Evaluate how well the transformer can be embedded into your PCB design for optimal performance and space utilization.

Conclusion

iNRCORE’s planar transformers provide efficient solutions for compact power conversion needs across various industries. With their innovative design, high efficiency, and versatility, our planar transformers are ideal for modern electronic systems requiring optimized performance in limited spaces.

For assistance in selecting the right planar transformer for your application or to discuss custom solutions tailored to your specific needs, please contact our experienced sales and engineering team. We are committed to helping you optimize your designs for peak performance and reliability while meeting your unique application requirements.

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Custom Design Services

iNRCORE excels in creating application-specific designs for unique requirements. Our extensive capabilities in design, development, production, and testing allow us to deliver tailored solutions that meet your specific needs.

For questions about our application notes or to discuss custom products, please contact our team of experts. We’re here to help you find the perfect solution for your electronic component needs

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